<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>#growth - RefinedNG</title> <atom:link href="https://refinedng.com/tag/growth/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://refinedng.com</link> <description>We will tell our stories - We are Nigeria!</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:04:17 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.2</generator> <item> <title>5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)</title> <link>https://refinedng.com/5-things-that-prevent-growth-and-how-to-overcome-them/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=5-things-that-prevent-growth-and-how-to-overcome-them</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[REFINEDNG]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 22 Aug 2024 11:04:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Learning and Development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learninganddevelopment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#refinedng]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://refinedng.com/?p=15461</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Discover 5 barriers that might be hindering your professional growth, including inadequate self-promotion and network neglect. Learn practical tips to overcome these obstacles and advance in your career.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/5-things-that-prevent-growth-and-how-to-overcome-them/">5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1170" height="694" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06d8e391-cb38-4b7b-8237-4269855bdebc-1170x694.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-15464" loading="lazy" srcset="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06d8e391-cb38-4b7b-8237-4269855bdebc-1170x694.jpg 1170w, https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/06d8e391-cb38-4b7b-8237-4269855bdebc-768x456.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure> <p style="font-size:18px">Feeling stuck in your career despite all your hard work? You’re not alone. Many professionals find themselves in the same position, wondering why their efforts aren’t translating into growth. The truth is, growth isn’t just about working harder—it’s about working smarter. Whether you’re aiming for that next promotion, new opportunities, or simply better job satisfaction, you might be inadvertently hindering your progress. </p> <p style="font-size:18px">Here are five common barriers to growth and actionable strategies to break through them.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">1. Inadequate Self-Promotion</h2> <p style="font-size:18px">One of the most significant obstacles to career growth is failing to promote yourself effectively. You may be producing outstanding work, but your efforts might go unnoticed if no one knows about it. Many professionals shy away from self-promotion, fearing they’ll appear boastful or arrogant. However, self-promotion is not about bragging—it’s about making your contributions visible to the right people.</p> <p style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why It Matters:</strong> In today’s competitive workplace, visibility is crucial. Decision-makers need to know about your achievements to consider you for promotions, projects, and other opportunities. If you’re not speaking up, you might be passed over for someone who is.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">Tips to Overcome:</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li style="font-size:18px">Take Credit Where It’s Due: When you complete a project successfully, make sure your contributions are known. Mention your role in meetings, project summaries, or performance reviews. <br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Document Your Achievements: Keep a running list of your accomplishments. This can be useful during performance reviews or when negotiating raises and promotions.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Frame It Positively: Self-promotion doesn’t have to feel like bragging. You can highlight your achievements by describing how they benefited the team or company.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">2. You’re Not Career Mapping</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="580" height="290" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/images-10-1.jpeg" alt="5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)" class="wp-image-15466" loading="lazy"></figure> <p style="font-size:18px">Without a clear career path, it’s easy to drift aimlessly.<a href="https://www.mentorcliq.com/blog/what-is-career-mapping" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title=""> Career mapping</a> involves setting specific, measurable goals and identifying the steps needed to achieve them. Without this, you might find yourself stuck in a role for years with no clear idea of how to advance.</p> <p style="font-size:18px">Read: <a href="https://refinedng.com/6-crucial-steps-you-must-follow-before-investing/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">6 Crucial Steps You Must Follow Before Investing</a></p> <p style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why It Matters:</strong> Career mapping gives you direction and purpose. It allows you to be proactive about your career rather than waiting for opportunities to come to you. You can make strategic moves that align with your long-term goals with a clear plan.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">Tips to Overcome:</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li style="font-size:18px">Set Clear Goals: Identify where you want to be in the next 2, 5, and 10 years. Break these goals down into actionable steps. <br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Communicate Your Goals: Share your career aspirations with your supervisors and mentors. They can provide guidance, opportunities, and support.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Revisit Regularly: Career goals aren’t set in stone. Revisit and revise your plan periodically to ensure it aligns with your evolving interests and the changing job market.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">3. Network Neglecting</h2> <p style="font-size:18px">Your professional network is one of your most valuable assets, yet it’s often neglected. Whether it’s staying in touch with former colleagues, engaging with industry peers, or building new connections, maintaining your network is essential for growth. A strong network can open doors to new opportunities, provide mentorship, and offer support during tough times.</p> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="900" height="563" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/networking.jpg" alt="5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)" class="wp-image-15467" loading="lazy" srcset="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/networking.jpg 900w, https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/networking-768x480.jpg 768w, https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/networking-585x366.jpg 585w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 900px) 100vw, 900px" /></figure> <p style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why It Matters:</strong> Networking isn’t just about landing a new job; it’s about staying connected to your industry and the people who can influence your career. Your network can provide insider information, recommend you for roles, and help you grow professionally.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">Tips to Overcome:</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li style="font-size:18px">Schedule Regular Check-ins: Don’t wait until you need something to contact your network. Engage with your contacts regularly, even if it’s just a quick catch-up.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Attend Industry Events: Attend conferences, webinars, and other industry events. These are great opportunities to meet new people and strengthen existing relationships.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Leverage Social Media: Platforms like <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/refinedng/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">LinkedIn</a> are powerful tools for maintaining your network. Post updates regularly, share insights, and engage with your connections’ content.</li> </ul> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">4. Resistance to Change</h2> <p style="font-size:18px">Change can be uncomfortable, but resisting it can stunt your growth. Whether it’s new technology, organizational shifts, or changes in your role, adaptability is key to staying relevant and advancing your career. Clinging to old methods or refusing to step out of your comfort zone can signal to others that you’re not ready for leadership or new challenges.</p> <p style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why It Matters: </strong>The business world is constantly evolving, and those who can adapt to change are the ones who thrive. Being open to change not only makes you more resilient but also shows that you’re capable of handling new responsibilities.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">Tips to Overcome:</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li style="font-size:18px">Say Yes to New Challenges: Embrace opportunities that push you out of your comfort zone. Whether it’s taking on a new project, learning a new skill, or adapting to a new process, view these changes as opportunities for growth.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Seek Feedback: If you’re unsure how to handle a change, seek feedback from others who have navigated similar situations. Their insights can help you adjust more effectively.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Stay Positive: Change can be daunting, but maintaining a positive attitude can make the transition smoother. Focus on the potential benefits rather than the challenges.</li> </ul> <p style="font-size:18px">Read: <a href="https://refinedng.com/how-to-foster-critical-thinking-and-problem-solving-skills-among-employees/" target="_blank" rel="noopener" title="">How to Foster Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills Among Employees</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">5. Insufficient Skill Development</h2> <figure class="wp-block-image aligncenter size-full"><img decoding="async" width="690" height="388" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/stockvault-businessman-facing-_1200x768.avif" alt="5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)" class="wp-image-15468" loading="lazy"></figure> <p style="font-size:18px">In a rapidly changing job market, the skills that got you where you are today may not be enough to get you where you want to go. Relying solely on your existing skills can limit your growth and leave you behind in a competitive landscape. Continuous skill development is essential for staying relevant and advancing in your career.</p> <p style="font-size:18px"><strong>Why It Matters:</strong> Employers value employees who are committed to personal and professional growth. By continuously developing your skills, you position yourself as a valuable asset who is ready to take on new challenges.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading" style="font-size:18px">Tips to Overcome:</h3> <ul class="wp-block-list"> <li style="font-size:18px">Commit to Continuous Learning: Make learning a regular part of your routine. This could involve taking online courses, attending workshops, or reading industry-related books and articles.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Identify Skill Gaps: Regularly assess your skillset to identify areas where you can improve. Focus on both technical skills and soft skills like communication and leadership.<br></li> <li style="font-size:18px">Seek Out New Experiences: Sometimes, the best way to develop a skill is through experience. Look for opportunities to apply new skills in your current role or through side projects.</li> </ul> <p style="font-size:18px">Growth doesn’t happen by accident—it’s the result of intentional actions and a proactive mindset. By addressing these five common barriers, you can unlock new levels of success in your career. Remember, professional growth is a continuous process, and staying committed to your development is key. Don’t let these obstacles hold you back any longer.</p> <p style="font-size:18px">Follow RefinedNG for more career growth tips, industry insights, and expert advice to help you achieve your professional goals.</p> <p></p> </body><p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/5-things-that-prevent-growth-and-how-to-overcome-them/">5 Things That Prevent Growth (And How to Overcome Them)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills</title> <link>https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-develop-and-improve-your-negotiation-skills/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=7-tips-to-develop-and-improve-your-negotiation-skills</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[RefinedNG]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 06 Aug 2020 08:31:25 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Industry]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Learning and Development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[People]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learninganddevelopment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#negotiationskills]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#refinedng]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://refinedng.com/?p=3830</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills Negotiation skills are qualities that…</p> <p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-develop-and-improve-your-negotiation-skills/">7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills</strong></p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Negotiation skills are qualities that allow two or more parties to reach a compromise that is acceptable to both parties. <a href="http://google.com">These are often soft skills and include abilities such as communication, persuasion, planning, strategizing, and cooperating. Understanding these skills is the first step to becoming an excellent negotiator.</a></p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1170" height="630" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/Negotiation-skills-3-1170x630.jpg" alt="7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills " class="wp-image-3831" loading="lazy"></figure></div> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Here are 7 tips to develop and improve your negotiation skills.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Recognize the Power of Thorough Preparation</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The single most valuable step you could take to improve your negotiation skills is to prepare thoroughly. Creating a negotiation checklist of tasks to complete, enlisting a negotiation coach to help you where necessary, and role-playing the negotiation process with a trusted friend, family member, or colleague are helpful ways to prepare. As part of your negotiation planning, determine your best alternative to a negotiated agreement if the present one fails.</p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Read Also: <a href="https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-improve-your-communication-skills/">7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Know Exactly What you want</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">It may seem like a no-brainer, but too often an individual goes into a negotiation without concrete and clear understanding of what exactly he or she wants and why. Not only is it important to have a rock-solid picture of what you want, but you also need to know the boundaries within which you will or will not settle. It is important to know when to keep talking and when to walk away. Knowing exactly what your desired result is will help you make better choices along the way to arrive at the most favorable conclusion.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Do your Homework</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Possibly the most important part of negotiating is understanding both the value of what you have to offer and the perceived value of what you are asking for in return. For instance, if you are negotiating a raise, you will want to demonstrate what your worth is to the company and why it is in their best interest to give you that raise. If you want to negotiate a decrease in rent or a service contract, you will need to have facts, figures, and statistics on hand to demonstrate the need for a revaluation. Remember, you are always trying to create a win-win, so it’s important that you demonstrate how what you are seeking is the best for both parties.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Place yourself in their shoes</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Many times we think we know what others want when in reality we do not. Great negotiators do their best to create win-win situations but doing so involves knowing what the other person or party hopes to achieve and why. Do not make the mistake of assuming you know what the other person wants until you take the time to consider their perspective, position, experience, and reputation. </p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Aim for a win-win situation</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Once you know what both parties want, you can begin the process of reaching a fair outcome. This is not foolproof, however. Many times hardball negotiators will hide their true intentions in an effort to get you to accept less so they can come out on top. Therefore, it is important for you to know what you will and will not accept. Be explicit in this regard. </p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Stay connected to RefinedNg for more developmental tips.</p> </body><p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-develop-and-improve-your-negotiation-skills/">7 Tips to Develop and Improve your Negotiation Skills</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills</title> <link>https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-improve-your-communication-skills/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=7-tips-to-improve-your-communication-skills</link> <dc:creator><![CDATA[RefinedNG]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 14 Jul 2020 11:14:08 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Industry]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Learning and Development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[People]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learning]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learninganddevelopment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#refinedng]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#refinednigerians]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://refinedng.com/?p=3571</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills Good communication is an essential tool in…</p> <p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-improve-your-communication-skills/">7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills</strong></p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Good communication is an essential tool in achieving productivity and maintaining strong working relationships at all levels of an organization. In the business context, communication is effective if the information shared among the company employees contributes towards the organization’s commercial success. Therefore, possessing strong communication skills greatly supports your career and personal development.</p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Here are 7 tips to improve your communication skills. </p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large"><img decoding="async" width="1170" height="694" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Jobberman_Effective_Workplace_Communication_Hacks__FB-1170x694.png" alt="7 Tips to Improve your Communications Skills" class="wp-image-3572" loading="lazy" srcset="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Jobberman_Effective_Workplace_Communication_Hacks__FB-1170x694.png 1170w, https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Jobberman_Effective_Workplace_Communication_Hacks__FB-768x456.png 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1170px) 100vw, 1170px" /></figure></div> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Listen</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">“Listen more than you talk.” Being a good listener is half the equation to being a good communicator. Thus, when you listen attentively you can answer in a more meaningful way. Listen attentively to someone completely and be comfortable with short periods of silence. This skill is crucial to effectively improve your communication skills.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Know Your Audience</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Knowing your audience is another critical component to having strong communication skills. To communicate effectively, it is important to get to know your audience first. Indeed, each audience is different and will have different preferences and cultural norms that should be considered when communicating. Therefore, the way you interact with your manager should be different than how you interact with your friends. This is not to say you need to be a different person with everyone you interact with. You want to ensure you are using the type of communication most relevant to your audience.</p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Read Also: <a href="https://refinedng.com/5-exciting-sites-for-free-online-education/">5 Exciting Sites for Free Online Education</a></p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Maintain eye contact.</strong> </h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Whether speaking to a crowd or one-on-one, maintaining eye contact builds credibility and demonstrates you care about your listeners.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Minimize</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The goal of talking to or communicating with someone is to share actual information. The goal is to provide clarity and not confusion. State what needs to be stated as succinctly and clearly as possible avoiding bogus words and vague assumptions.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Body Language</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">A critical component of how to improve communication skills especially for workplace success is body language. Body language refers to the nonverbal signals that you use to communicate your feelings and intentions. It includes your posture, your facial expressions, and your hand gestures. S<a href="http://google.com">tudies show that 65% of all communication is non-verbal. Watch for visual signs that your listener understands, agrees, or disagrees with your message. And be aware that your body is sending signals, too. Understanding body language is important, but it is also essential to pay attention to other cues such as context. </a>To communicate clearly and confidently, adopt proper posture. Avoid slouching, folding your arms, or making yourself appear smaller than you are. Instead, fill up the space you are given, maintain eye contact</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Ask for honest feedback</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">As with most leadership skills, receiving honest <a href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/230936">feedback</a> from peers, managers, and members of your team is critical to becoming a better communicator. If you regularly solicit feedback, others will help you to discover areas for improvement that you might have otherwise overlooked.</p> <h2 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Engage the audience or listener in a discussion.</strong></h2> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Regardless of how compelling the speaker is, all audiences have limited attention spans. To become a more effective communicator, make presentations and discussions interactive. Ask the audience a question, encourage people to call out their thoughts during a brainstorming session, or at the very least ask hypothetical questions to stimulate the audience.</p> </body><p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/7-tips-to-improve-your-communication-skills/">7 Tips to Improve your Communication Skills</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> </item> <item> <title>How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview</title> <link>https://refinedng.com/how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview</link> <comments>https://refinedng.com/how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview/#comments</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[RefinedNG]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 07 Jul 2020 08:14:38 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Learning and Development]]></category> <category><![CDATA[People]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#growth]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#learninganddevelopment]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#refinedng]]></category> <category><![CDATA[#virtualinterview]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://refinedng.com/?p=3468</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview The economic impact of the pandemic has…</p> <p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview/">How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<body> <p><strong>How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview</strong></p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The economic impact of the pandemic has led to new categorizations of “essential” workers and the world of work has now moved online.</p> <p class="has-medium-font-size"><a href="http://google.com">Most companies are now conducted virtual interviews as part of their hiring process. A virtual interview is an interview that takes place remotely, sometimes over the phone, but often using technology like video conferencing and other online communication platforms.</a> As a candidate, there is a great need to ensure that you give your best in order to succeed in the interview.</p> <div class="wp-block-image"><figure class="aligncenter size-large is-resized"><img decoding="async" src="https://refinedng.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/5e6b9e2054f25c029b09eed6-1100x694.jpeg" alt="How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview" class="wp-image-3469" width="820" height="517" loading="lazy"></figure></div> <p class="has-medium-font-size">We have compiled a few ideas to help you scale through your next remote interview.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Research the Company</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Ensure you carry out adequate research on the company by visiting their website, and social media pages. It is often advisable to find out the identity of the person that would conduct the interview. Do proper background research on the culture of the organization. Get familiar with the role you are applying for and try to find come up with strategies and solutions for the company. This portrays you as a proactive candidate with the potential to add value to the growth of the company. </p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Read Also: <a href="https://refinedng.com/how-to-utilize-linkedin-for-career-development/">HOW TO UTILIZE LINKEDIN FOR CAREER DEVELOPMENT</a></p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Understand the Platform</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">When contacted for a virtual interview, the company would have chosen a web platform for the meeting such as Zoom, Skype, WhatsApp video, Google meet, or any web platform that allows for end to end communication. Ensure you understand the platform adequately. You can do this by scheduling a call on the proposed platform with a friend or family member to test all available features. You can also go on YouTube to learn about the features of the platform that are mostly used during interviews. Most candidates overlook this just to discover that they have little knowledge as to how to share their computer’s screen or worse they don’t know where to turn off their web camera in case the interviewer requests for such. </p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Test Your devices</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">You might be planning to use either your phone or desktop computer or laptop. You need to ensure this equipment is working perfectly for the interview. At least a day before your virtual interview, check all of your technology to ensure it works effectively and can be used to communicate effectively. This means having a functional computer that meets technical specifications, downloading any necessary software, and ensuring the connection is strong enough to sustain streaming video. In the 10 to 15 minutes before your interview, check your internet connection and sign in to the video or phone meeting the HR representative or hiring manager has provided. Turn on the sound and video to ensure everything is in working order in time for your conversation.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Be Presentable</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">In a virtual interview, you should dress the same as you would in a face-to-face interview. Doing so not only makes you appear professional and excited about the opportunity, but it will also make you feel more prepared and confident. When an interview takes place from a remote location like your home, you should expect it to be just as formal as one that takes place in an office. Please ensure you look presentable except the interview is not a video call and even at that, you might be asked at the end of the interview to turn on your camera to see what you really look like and you want to ensure you are presentable.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Be Punctual</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Set up your phone or computer ahead of time and join the call a few minutes early so you can find and correct any issues with connectivity, sound, or your location. Also, test your camera to ensure its working perfectly.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Limit distractions</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">The best place to take an interview in your home is a quiet location with few distractions. Choose a room that is clean and professional-looking so the interviewer can focus their attention on you and not what is around you. Tell people you are sharing space with about the area you’ll be using for your interview, the time of your interview, and that you and your quiet space will be off-limits during that time. Respectfully explain that during this time, it is best that the house stays quiet with limited distractions.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Communicate</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">If you would not be available for the call due to unavoidable reasons such as ill-health, ensure you communicate effectively. You could be rescheduled for another time.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Be authentic</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">When interviewing virtually, you have the rare opportunity to speak in a relaxing, familiar environment and show the interviewer who you are and why you’re the best person for the job. Recruiters will look out for how you express yourself to understand whether you are a good fit for the company. Use tools such as your body language, facial expressions, and interview preparations to convey your confidence and personality as it relates to the position.</p> <h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Follow up</strong></h3> <p class="has-medium-font-size">After your interview, plan to send a well-timed follow-up. It’s good practice to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of an interview, thanking the interviewer for their time and letting them know you’re available if they have any additional questions. </p> <p class="has-medium-font-size">Hope this was helpful? RefinedNg is committed to providing valuable information to help you grow as an individual, ensure you always check this space for more.</p> </body><p>The post <a href="https://refinedng.com/how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview/">How to Succeed at your Next Virtual Interview</a> first appeared on <a href="https://refinedng.com">RefinedNG</a>.</p>]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://refinedng.com/how-to-succeed-at-your-next-virtual-interview/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>1</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>