The Covid-19 Pandemic has changed everything about our lives. Even job interviews have changed. Just as every conversation broaches the subject of the pandemic, job interviews are no different. Pandemic-related questions will come up in your next interview. As preparation is key to any successful interview, get ready to answer these questions as part of the new normal.
1. How have you spent your time during the pandemic?
With this question, the hiring manager is assessing how you deal with stress as well as how proactive you are. Bring up any new skills you have learned, online classes, or any volunteer work you have done. This is also a time to show empathy. Take a moment to ask the hiring manager how their team and family have fared during this crisis.
2. What have you learned about yourself from the pandemic?
This is a good time to showcase your problem-solving skills, resiliency, and agility. These soft skills are currently in high demand.
3. Can you do the job while working remotely from home?
Many companies are hiring and onboarding with the expectation that new hires will work from home temporarily. Expect questions about your ability to work from home, including the tools and resources you have available. You may be asked about the type of computer you have, your internet connection, and if you have a dedicated workspace at home.
4. How do you feel about the possibility of working from home for the rest of your career?
If the job you are applying for is not advertised as a remote position, make clear that you expect to shift to working in the office once it is safe to do so. But, also make clear that you are flexible and would be able to adjust to a permanently remote situation if needed. Now is the time to emphasize that you are a self-directed and flexible person.
5. Have you led a team through a period of significant change?
Expect behavioral questions such as this one meant to assess the value you bring to the organization at this time of unprecedented change. Prepare for this question by recalling a specific situation from the past, then write it down. Writing will help you turn it into a story with a beginning, middle, and end. The ending should include quantifiable results.
The pandemic isn’t over yet. It continues to impact our lives, both personally and professionally. In your next interview, be prepared to talk about how you will be an asset to the organization as it moves through these difficult circumstances and beyond.
Written by:
Kathy Lin, Marketing Communications Manager
Kathy writes content for Tal Healthcare, a healthcare career website. She has a background in recruiting, sales, and teaching. She holds a BA in Biology from the University of Vermont. When she isn’t writing you can find her outside running, skiing or biking.