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On-Cam Excellence: Tips to Help Self-Storage Job-Seekers Ace the Video Interview
If you’re looking for a job within the self-storage industry and an employer likes the look of your resume, chances are that they’ll invite you to a video interview. While being on camera can spark anxiety, preparation is the key. Consider the following guidance so you can shine on cam and move on to the next step in the hiring process.
5 Min Read
Many self-storage companies, especially the larger facility operators, have incorporated video interviewing into their hiring process. Often, candidates must navigate a series of online meetings before being asked to meet in person. Those high-demand invites are typically reserved for the top one or two applicants.
From an employer’s perspective, video interviews save time and are especially advantageous when conducting a confidential search. You can also assemble multiple decision-makers at once, regardless of their location, avoiding travel time and expense.
If you’re seeking employment in the self-storage industry and a company likes the look of your resume, you’ll likely be asked to participate in a video interview. While it can be stressful to appear on camera, being prepared can help ease your anxiety. Consider the following advice to ensure you do well and advance to the next phase in the hiring process.
Prepping for the Big Day
There are a lot of people out there looking for jobs, so whatever position you’re pursuing within the self-storage industry, there will likely be multiple candidates. With so much at stake, how can you stand out from your peers?
The key to any interview, wither it’s online or in person, is to be prepared. It’s true that you only get one chance to make a great first impression. Also, whether you meet with a company once or several times, treat every interview as though it’s your first. Here are some other tips that’ll give you an edge over the competition:
Research the company. Visit their website and even a nearby self-storage property, if possible. Familiarize yourself with their locations, target markets, and any recent news or developments.
Be familiar with your interviewer. Confirm that you have accurate names and titles for anyone with whom you’ll be speaking. Look up their backgrounds on the company website or LinkedIn and familiarize yourself with their role.
Review the opening. Thoroughly review the job description, paying close attention to the required skills and qualifications, so you can articulate how yours will align.
Update your social profiles. Always present yourself professionally on all social media platforms. Before the interview, check them all to ensure there’s nothing there that might harm your chances.
Prepare a list of questions. Not only does this act as a reminder of important discussion topics, it demonstrates that you’ve put effort and thought into the opportunity.
Have your resume handy. Have a copy in front of you so you can easily navigate through your work history.
Write notes. Don't be afraid to help yourself! A benefit of having a webcam interview is you can use a cheat sheet, and you don’t have to memorize everything you want to mention. Just use it sparingly and stay focused on the conversation.
Check your equipment. Test your computer, camera and microphone in advance to ensure they’re working properly. Make sure you have a stable internet connection and your laptop is fully charged or plugged in. Before your interview, close all other windows on your computer, especially if they make noise. Mute your phone as well.
Watch your background. Pay close attention to your video backdrop. Make sure it’s professional and clutter-free.
Avoid interruptions. If you’re interviewing from home, let everyone in your house know ahead of time that you’ll be in an interview. Don’t let pets interrupt the conversation, either.
Dress for the part. Treat your video interview as though it were in person one and dress professionally. If you’ll be in casual attire for any reason, let the interviewer know in advance.
Nail the On-Camera Interaction
Now that you’re fully prepared for your self-storage job interview, keep these pointers in mind for the on-camera conversation.
Slow down. It can be easy to talk over people in a video meeting. Always wait for the interviewer to stop speaking before you answer. This also gives you a few seconds to think about what you want to say.
Look at the camera when speaking, not the screen. It’s very tempting to watch yourself or your interviewer during a video call. Instead, look directly at the camera when speaking. It’s the only way to maintain direct eye contact with your interviewer.
Relay your accomplishments. Be prepared to discuss achievements that have made or saved your employers money. Also, think of past successes that are in line with the requirements of this self-storage position.
Show your enthusiasm. If you like what you’ve heard in the interview, let the interviewer know you’re interested! Also, ask them what the next step will be and their timing.
After all is said and done, follow up with a thank-you email reiterating your interest and abilities. Remember to spell-check and proofread carefully.
Avoid These Mistakes
While the above guidance explains what you should do during an on-camera self-storage job interview, there are a few things you should definitely avoid doing, too:
Don’t join the interview from a tablet or phone. If that’s your only option, set up in a quiet space, and prop up your device at eye level, just as you would a laptop.
Don’t join the meeting from any office with noise or distractions. Also, avoid conducting the conversation from your car, and never do it while driving!
Don’t eat or drink during a video interview. That said, it’s OK to have some water set aside in case your throat gets dry.
Video interviews are an effective way for self-storage employers to get to know their candidates and for job seekers to explore new career opportunities. They can be a tremendous time- and money-saver and can even expedite the entire hiring process. However, the ease of coordination doesn’t lessen the importance of preparation or basic interview etiquette. With proper planning, video interviewing is a win-win for self-storage job candidates and the businesses that seek to hire them.
Lisa Pyle is a founding partner at Real8 Group, a national executive-search firm specializing in real estate. She has established a prominent niche in the self-storage industry, positioning Real8 as a leader in recruiting. For more information, email [email protected] or call 724.835.4200.
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