The metaverse is growing in popularity across the world. By 2026, around 25% of the world’s population will spend at least an hour a day on the metaverse. But how is this going to impact our daily lives? A major way in which the metaverse will be used is large numbers of jobs and the interviews for them. As metaverse interviews become more popular, jobseekers may wonder how to best tackle them. Fear not, at Adzuna, we have put together a guide on metaverse interviews and how to succeed.
What is the metaverse?
You have probably heard of the metaverse but may have been left wondering exactly what it is. Essentially, the metaverse is a network of 3D virtual worlds. The metaverse is currently accessed through virtual reality headsets. Plenty of companies are already involved in the metaverse, such as Microsoft, Nike, and of course Facebook, which recently rebranded to Meta.
How do metaverse interviews work?
With a rise in metaverse-related positions highly likely, metaverse interviews will also rise. The question is, how do these differ from interviews as we know them? Metaverse interviews will replace video interviews, giving candidates the opportunity to be interviewed in spaces that look and feel real. Candidates may find that their interview experience is enhanced, for example, they can present portfolios immersively, as well as back examples up with graphics. In metaverse interviews, candidates can also interact with digital versions of key systems for the role. As well as this, organizations can provide virtual walkarounds of the organization, meaning that potential employees can virtually visit the employer’s workplace.
How can you prepare for an interview in the metaverse?
Although it is a relatively new concept, there are plenty of ways that candidates can prepare for metaverse interviews.
One important thing to remember is to prepare for the metaverse interview the same way as any other interview. Candidates should prepare to answer traditional questions, such as those relating to experience, qualifications, and interest in the role. However, there will also be metaverse-related questions, such as about the candidate’s avatar, experience of collaboration in the metaverse, and prioritizing work in the metaverse.
Choosing the right technology
The technology used in metaverse interviews is where these interviews differ from the more traditional option. Before completing the interview, make sure that you have the appropriate technology. This may include a reliable VR headset or motion capture devices. If you are unsure, check with the interviewer about the types of technology required for your interview as it may differ depending on the sector.
The technology used in metaverse interviews is complex and developing very quickly. It is worth noting, however, that just like with video interviews, mishaps occur, so be patient and understand that mishaps are totally normal with new technology. One way to avoid mishaps where possible is to test your technology in advance to prevent issues on your end to the best of your ability.
Creating a suitable metaverse avatar
When preparing for an interview in the metaverse, make sure that you have an appropriate avatar. When creating an avatar, candidates should choose an appropriate outfit for the job, industry, and company they are applying for. For example, if you are interviewing for a job in a metaverse insurance firm, your avatar should be dressed in formal attire, such as a suit. To compare, tech firms may have a more relaxed dress code, much like the corporate world as we know it. Avatars are a good representation of applicants, with the ability to mimic facial expressions, gestures, and body language. However, try and recognize that although they are supported by strong technology, avatars can’t fully represent the complexities of body language. So, be sure to effectively communicate verbally. Remember that although it is an avatar, it should be a good representation of how you wish to be perceived by a potential employer.
What should I wear to a metaverse interview?
Most metaverse interviews will be entirely digital. This means that the interview process could rely on avatars interacting with key digital systems. Although it may help you to get into the right headspace, wearing business attire is likely unnecessary for metaverse interviews. So, if the days of wearing pajama bottoms on video calls aren’t behind you, a metaverse interview could be a good bet.
Remember to check any briefing documents and check out the company culture before deciding upon the all-important outfit. If the interview involves having your camera on, it is probably not the best idea to wear your pajamas or tracksuit bottoms. Make sure that you wear an appropriate outfit for the company culture, just like a normal interview.
Following up after a metaverse interview
The process following a metaverse interview should follow the same format as traditional interviews. After metaverse interviews, make sure to follow up with the hiring manager as well as anyone else you spoke with. Following up is key to making a good impression, so take the principles from traditional interviews into the metaverse.
Who is conducting metaverse interviews?
There are several big-name brands that are already implementing metaverse interviews across the world. Deutsche Bahn has been using metaverse interviews since 2015. The German company needed to hire 10,000 new employees. To do this, they took VR headsets to assessment days and career fairs. By doing this, train crews can learn to operate trains as well as get to know the ins and outs of existing trains. Since then, the company has been conducting regular training using VR headsets.
Grocery store giant Walmart uses AR and VR to train its staff in compliance and customer service. By doing this, Walmart staff can experience challenges and tasks that feel as realistic as possible.
French grocery store Carrefour is following a similar strategy. Carrefour has created a virtual campus in the metaverse. The virtual campus gives applicants a unique experience of a recruitment event. Rather than holding it in their Paris headquarters, jobseekers had interviews on a beach in the metaverse. Clearly, this is a pretty cool experience and something that more brands are expected to follow.
Although the metaverse still feels like a pretty new concept to most, the virtual world is rising in popularity among companies. It may seem pretty daunting at first but jobseekers shouldn’t fear metaverse interviews. They are a great opportunity to learn and interact with the business without even having to leave your house!
If you’re passionate about gaming or keen to work on the vanguard of tech, why not consider taking a metaverse job? Search our millions of job vacancies here.
Read more: The meteoric rise of the metaverse