The professional network began testing a video introduction feature, which hiring managers can request as part of the process. Applicants can respond either via video or written copy.

Senior director of product management Blake Barnes said in a blog post, “We’ve found that 65% of people believe that the impression you make online is just as important as the one you make in person, but it can be challenging to show your soft skills to potential employers when you’re not in the same room … A carefully crafted response can help you stand out before the official interview process even begins.”

LinkedIn also added feedback powered by artificial intelligence to the interview preparation tools it rolled out in January.

The tools help applicants prepare for the most common questions they will face during the screening process, tailored to specific industries, and members receive videos and tips from experts and hiring managers on how to best answer those questions.

The new AI feedback feature, which is rolling out globally, analyzes practice answers recorded by the applicant for factors including feedback on pacing, how many times filler words are used and sensitive phrases to avoid.

Barnes wrote, “Job searching is stressful in even the best of times, and the impact of the coronavirus has made this an especially tough market. If you’re searching for a job right now, we want to help you stand out to recruiters and prepare for your interview—which most likely will be virtual.”