Job Interviewing during the Corona Virus Outbreak in the Construction, Engineering industries.

How employers interview candidates for jobs by utilizing technological advancements and jobseekers utilizing common sense actions can result in reduction of the transmission of the novel corona virus throughout communities.

Individuals should not stop their job search, but rather take the time to utilize the many opportunities to reach out to employers via responses to job announcements, online networking through social media, LinkedIn, email inquiries and conducting interviews with potential employers via telephone and video meetings. This will allow you to set the ground work needed for future advancements in the interview process as the risk / disease spread slows over time.

Many larger organizations today have already altered their interviewing techniques to take advantage of online video meetings. Limiting the physical contact / face to face interactions through utilization of online meeting applications like zoom.us, gotomeeting.com, etc.. These applications have made it possible for one on one interactions, group meetings that essentially replicate an in-person interview experience from the comfort of your home or office.

Many smaller organization’s today though may have not yet implemented these changes and/or should you find yourself in a situation in which you need to be present for an in-person meeting there are simple actions you can take to make sure you keep yourself and others around you safe.

1. If you believe you may be sick with the common flu, illness and/or corona virus; stay home, reach out to health professionals for medical attention so you do not infect others. Your health is much more important than a job and advising a potential employer you are not feeling well will most likely garner good will in the long run and allow them to reschedule your interview for a better time for everyone.
   
   
2. The easiest thing you can do to help reduce the spread and possible infection of the novel corona virus is wash your hands. The simple 20 second rule of vigorously washing of your hands with soap and/or hand sanitizer at least a few times a day will reduce your potential of possible infection.
   
   If you are going to have a in-person meeting and/or interview. Wash your hands before the meeting and right after your meeting. As interviews are stressful, try to keep your hands away from touching your face. If you have to use a knuckle, side of your sleeve or tissue.

3. Travel with the basics; bring a small bottle of hand sanitizer and tissues with you. Should you find yourself in a situation where you may feel like you need to touch an elevator button, pen, desk surface, etc. Having the essentials with you will ease some of the stress of the situation.
   
   When scheduling interviews, typically an employer will provide you with a few times to choose from, try to select one in which will provide you the flexibility to avoid large crowds of people should you be traveling via public transportation or train. Utilizing social distancing will aid greatly in your travels. If you are using an elevator, touching desk surfaces, door handle, etc. try using your elbow, knuckle, elbow, etc.

4. As it is customary in business when you meet with someone to provide a handshake; in the days of the novel corona virus you should politely introduce yourself and state that at this time it may be best for forego the handshake. The individual you are meeting will most likely be in agreement. Using some humor always helps in these types of situations. Remember the other person is as worried about the transmission of the virus as you are.

As the novel corona virus (COVID-19) situation is changing daily, it is advisable to check in with community health organizations, healthcare providers and/or the CDC websites for important updates related to the spread of the virus and actions you can take to keep safe and healthy.

Michael DeSafey is a leading executive recruiter for professionals in the construction, engineering and environmental industries. He is currently the President of Webuild Staffing www.webuildstaffing.com  . To learn more about Michael or to follow his blog please visit www.michaeldesafey.com