I seriously don't remember video calls being taken so seriously and being so important before the pandemic. I think we can all agree – getting your hair done, your makeup on and your smart clothes on for a 20 minute initial call is a lot of work for something that isn't guaranteed.
Before the pandemic, most initial first interviews would be via phone call or in person to get a feel for each other. We could meet and discuss further aspects of the role during the initial chat. Or is it was a phone call then meet in person, or a phone call then a video call if you advanced to the next stage.
However, since the pandemic every single first interview is now done via video call. And your camera has to be switched on. I've done multiple first stage interviews now via Zoom, with my camera switched off, and literally none of them have come back to me, with one even telling me they won't consider a candidate that “can't switch their camera on”.
What? I'm going for remote social media management roles, why does how I look matter during a first initial chat? Surely my skills and experience is more important? Am I going crazy here? I've worked remotely for 8+ years, worked with brands all over the world, and don't remember video calls being such an important part of the interview process. It always came later – during the second stages of the interview (when they were seriously considering you for the role) or didn't requite it at all.
They know what I look like from my social media, Linkedin, Instagram pages etc.
I even was headhunted for a role and they asked me for an initial quick call. I agreed. They said over Zoom. I said sure but my camera won't be on as I'll be in a co-working space. They declined, saying they “like to talk face to face to all potential candidates”.
Has anyone else found there's been an uptick in video calls for first interviews since the pandemic?