Virtual vs. In-Person Interviews

Before you can land your dream retail job, you’ll need to tackle the interview process. And, in the current climate, that means navigating both virtual and face-to-face interviews – with some hiring managers opting to do both as part of their retail recruitment process.

But, fear not, our top tips are here to help you shine in your interview, no matter the format. We’ll explore the pros and cons of both, offering invaluable virtual interview tips and other essential pointers to help you ace your next interview and land that perfect job in retail.

Is it better to do a virtual or in-person interview?

After a couple of years of adjusting to doing things online during the pandemic, it’s really no surprise that virtual interviews have stood the test of time. But is it better to have a virtual interview or a face-to-face one? Truthfully, there isn’t really a “better” format – it mostly depends on the specific role, the company culture, and even your own preferences. For customer-facing roles on the shop floor, an in-person interview might be preferred, allowing the hiring manager to see your natural interpersonal skills in action. But for head office roles or positions with a remote element, a virtual interview might be the way to go. The key is to be prepared for either and let your skills and experience shine no matter which format you’re invited to!

What are the pros and cons of virtual interviews?

Virtual interviews have become increasingly popular, and for good reason. They’re a bit more convenient than face-to-face interviews, saving you travel time and costs. You can interview from anywhere with a decent connection, which is a serious plus if you’ve got a busy schedule or you’re applying for jobs in retail across the country.

But, nothing comes without its downsides. Technical glitches can be a pain, distractions at home can disrupt your focus, and it can be harder to build that all-important rapport with the interviewer through a screen. But don’t worry, we’ve got plenty of virtual interview tips to help you overcome these challenges.

What are the pros and cons of face-to-face interviews?

Something we love about face-to-face interviews is their traditional feel. Of course, they get the nerves going a bit – but they really do allow for a more personal connection with the interviewer. You can get a better sense of the company culture, observe the workplace dynamics, and showcase your personality more through face-to-face interactions. That’s not to say that in-person interviews are flawless – they require more time and effort, which often comes with travel costs and time off from your current role.

How to prepare for a virtual interview

Preparation is key for any interview, but virtual interviews require some extra attention. First things first, make sure your tech is up to scratch. Test your internet connection, camera, and microphone well in advance to avoid any last-minute glitches. Make sure to choose a quiet, distraction-free location where you can focus without interruptions. Though you’ll most likely be sitting at home, you should dress professionally, just as you would for an in-person interview, and make sure the background is tidy and uncluttered.

We’d also recommend preparing some notes, but avoid reading directly from them, as you want to keep up a natural and engaging conversation, maintaining eye contact with your interviewer as you would if it were in person. And don’t forget to practice! Rehearsing your answers to common interview questions for retail can boost your confidence and help you articulate your thoughts clearly.

Looking for more virtual interview tips to help you prepare ahead of time? Check out our 11 tips to get you ready for your virtual interview.

Where should I do a virtual interview?

This is one we can’t express enough – make sure you’re in a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted by family, housemates, or pets. A clean and uncluttered background is essential – a plain wall or a tidy bookshelf is ideal. We’d recommend avoiding coffee shops or other public places where noise and distractions can disrupt your focus, as this can make you look uninterested.

Signs the interview went well

So, the interview is over, and you’re left wondering, “How did I do?” While there’s no guaranteed way to know for sure, there are some positive signs an interview went well to be on the lookout for. Did the conversation flow naturally? Did the interviewer seem engaged and interested in your answers? Did they ask follow-up questions and delve deeper into your experience? These are all good indicators that you made a positive impression. Did the interview run over the allotted time? That’s often a good sign, as it suggests the interviewer was genuinely interested in learning more about you.

And, if they discussed the next steps in the hiring process, that’s a big win, as it’s another positive sign that you’re being seriously considered for the role.

Mastering retail interviews

Whether you’ve booked a virtual or face-to-face interview, here are some of our top interview tips for retail jobs that can help you to stand out. The first is a classic – research, research and more research! Look into the role, the brand and the skills you’ll need, and see how your experience aligns with the job description. This will mean that you have plenty to talk about, and it also shows your genuine interest in the role.

We’d also recommend preparing and practicing strong answers to common interview questions for retail, such as “Why do you want to work in retail?” or “Tell me about a time you provided excellent customer service.” Be ready to discuss your experience, your skills, and your passion for the industry. And don’t forget to ask insightful questions – this again shows that you’re an engaged candidate!

Land your dream retail role

Finding the right role for you and going through the retail recruitment process can feel lengthy, but it’s worth it when you bag your dream role at the end of it. As a leading retail recruitment agency, we are passionate about helping talented retail professionals find their perfect position – so whether you are looking at head office jobs or you fancy yourself as a store manager for a leading brand, we are here to help. Talk to us today to find your future.