COVID-19 Interview Questions

COVID-19 Interview Questions

COVID-19 is changing everything from how we work in the workplace to how we apply for jobs. With the onset of COVID-19, interview questions have evolved. Being ready for an interview before COVID-19 was standard: read up on the company, develop answers to typical interview questions, be prepared for that “outside the box” question, and research our interviewer. We all knew the standard interview questions:

  • Why did you choose to apply for our position?
  • Tell me a little about yourself.
  • Why did you leave your last position?
  • Are you a team player?
  • What are your strengths/weaknesses?

Here are a few new COVID-19 interview questions that companies may start asking and we believe will be around, long after the pandemic is over:

How did you find yourself reacting to the pandemic?
Companies are looking for information on how you handle difficult and emotionally tricky situations. Choose an answer that highlights what you have learned about yourself and how you have grown throughout the pandemic.

 

Can you do this job while working from home?
Companies may need to make adjustments by moving their in-person workforce to a fully remote or virtual workforce. Knowing you are willing to do this job from home ensures they will not need to rehire for your position at a later date.

 

Are you willing to physically work from an office when the pandemic is over?
Companies will likely need to begin bringing in staff virtually and move to in-person working, at a later date. If they hire you and cannot transition you to in-person working, they may need to reconsider the ability to hire you.

 

What have you been doing during the pandemic?
This question is similar to the question, “What do you do in your spare time?” The limitations imposed by the pandemic caused many people not to engage in normal activities. The point of this question is to see if you found healthy and/or productive alternatives in your routine.

 

We recommend still preparing for the typical interview questions but also think about your answers to these new questions. Practice your responses until they feel relaxed and comfortable, even when asked to elaborate.

Make sure your answers are honest and best represent the situation you want. If you can only work remotely and cannot transition into the office later, tell the interviewer your limitations. Issues like having students home from school, high-risk adults in your household, and other factors are not long term situations, and the company may be able to work with your schedule.

Above all, remember to do your best to feel confident, smile, and make eye contact with your camera and not just the person on the screen (if you are using a virtual interview resource).


Are you currently looking for a job? Visit our job board to view job openings in the Sacramento area. 

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