Among the changes brought about by COVID-19 is the virtual interview, and it looks like it’s here to stay. As more jobs become remote, companies can cast a wider net to attract talent. Thanks to technologies like Zoom, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams, employers and candidates can easily connect and meet virtually — proving both time effective and fiscally responsible for both parties. While it may be convenient, a virtual interview does come with challenges. Here are some tips to help you make a good impression on your next virtual interview.
Prepare Yourself
Just like any interview, be sure to do your homework. Research the company, prepare questions, and be ready to tout your own experience. Have in mind examples of challenges you overcame, successful projects in which you played an integral role, and lessons in leadership and growth. Some employers may provide a list of questions that they want you to consider ahead of the meeting. Be sure to review them carefully as they can help you focus your research. Don’t kid yourself into thinking you can covertly look up information or read pre-written answers while you’re on the video call — the interviewer will notice. You want to be well-prepared so that you can have a natural conversation.
Prepare Your Technology
A few days prior to your interview, check that your internet connection is reliable and strong enough to maintain a streaming video. If you haven’t done so already, this is also the time to download the proper software applications needed for the virtual meeting. About a half hour prior to your scheduled interview, sign into the meeting and turn on the sound and video to be certain you’re good to go. When the time comes, remember to log in on time.
Look the Part
Even though you’re conducting this meeting from your home, you should still dress as if you’re meeting face-to-face. Presenting yourself in a professional manner shows maturity and sends a message to the interviewer that you’re excited and take this opportunity seriously. While you might not realize it, dressing professionally will also make you feel prepared and confident. If you’re unsure of the particular company’s dress code, business casual is a safe standard to follow.
Watch Your Posture
One benefit of an in-person interview is the ability to communicate with body language. Since a virtual interview limits each participant’s view, it is important to be poised and professional. Sit up straight throughout the meeting, and position your camera so that your face is in the middle of your screen. Avoid having too much blank space around your head. You won’t have chance to connect with the interviewer with a handshake, so you must find other ways to show your enthusiasm, like smiling and maintaining eye contact.
Stay Focused
Before the day of the interview, determine where you’ll set up your computer. The best place is a quiet spot in your home where there are few — or no — distractions. Choose a clean space so the interviewer can focus on you and not what’s around you. A tidy bedroom, your kitchen table, or even an empty closet are all reasonable settings. Refrain from sitting on a couch or placing your laptop on your lap as the computer will likely shift and become very distracting to anyone on the other side of the video. Instead, place your computer on a hard surface where it will remain steady. Don’t forget to let any roommates or family members know what time your interview is and that your designated space will be off-limits during that time.
Follow Up
After you disconnect from your virtual meeting, there’s one more thing to do: send a follow-up. It's good practice to email the person(s) you met within 24 hours of an interview. It’s another chance to thank them for their time and to let them know you're interested and happy to answer any additional questions. If you met with a panel of interviewers, touch base with the Human Resources representative or hiring manager who initiated the interview and ask for your interviewers’ contact information.
Take the extra time to prepare your technology, your space, and yourself for your next virtual interview and set yourself up for success!
ON TOPIC
Whether it’s taking place virtually or in person, a job interview can be anxiety inducing. But don’t let nerves get the best of you. Here are some tips to overcome your nerves and make a great impression during your next interview.
Meditate. Clear your head before your interview. Simply take a few minutes to focus on your breathing and quiet your thoughts. Take slow, deep breaths. During this time, turn your awareness completely on your breaths. This will slow your mind and help you focus on just the interview. You can use this approach anywhere, any time. It may be helpful to do this on your way to the interview, or just prior to logging onto a virtual meeting.
Be Prepared. Don’t add to your stress level by going into an interview blind. Before the meeting, review the job description and your own resume so you’re armed with examples of achievement, challenge, and leadership. Practice answering expected questions aloud so that your answers sound thoughtful and articulate. Also, don’t forget to prepare a few questions for the interviewer — it will show you’re interested and you’ve done your homework.
Don’t Rush. If those pesky nerves creep in during your conversation, subtly take a deep breath before answering. This will give you a bit of time to collect yourself and your thoughts. You can also add filler, such as, “That’s a good question,” before sharing your response. If you’re unsure what the interviewer is asking, don’t be afraid to ask for clarification.
Smile. It might sound silly, but smiling — even if it’s fake — can affect you mentally and physically as it activates the release of neuropeptides that help fight stress. When you smile, dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin are released. This release helps to relax your body and lower your heart rate and blood pressure. So flash a smile to fend off the nerves.
