Mastering the Virtual Interview
With the recent Coronavirus pandemic forcing businesses to find other approaches to work and communicate, it should be no surprise that virtual interviews are becoming much more prevalent and may end up becoming a larger staple of interviewing going forward. Services such as Big Interview and the use of Skype, Zoom, and Google Hangouts have opened the door for the interview process to happen right in the comfort of your own home. However, this does not mean that things have shifted to be more relaxed. Rather, interviewees need to be just as if not more professional through this medium. Here are some tips for approaching an online interview for the best chance of success.
1.) Practice, Practice, Practice.
Just like in person methods, interviewing online can be nerve wracking if you are not proficient in doing so. Many people have a hard time seeing themselves in a camera or hearing their own voice on a recording. The best way to combat this problem is by taking advantage of resources online designed to hone your skills. Big Interview is an excellent resource that provides training and practice opportunities tailored to your specific field of interest. Additionally, the classic “practice in the mirror” method works as well.
2.) Check your tech ahead of time.
Just as being late to an in-person interview is a sign of being unprepared, so is being late to an online interview because your technology isn’t working right. Make sure to check your computer or laptop software at least an hour in advance of your scheduled interview so that you can work out any issues or complete any updates that might be necessary. Being unfamiliar with your software is not a viable excuse for being late to an online interview and reflects poorly on you. Additionally, if you do find you have problems prior to your interview, you can then contact your interviewer and explain the situation to try and find an alternative before your scheduled appointment.
3.) Dress for success.
Just because you are interviewing at home does not mean you can be casual. Treat the virtual interview as you would an in-person interview and prepare an outfit in advance. As another note, don’t just wear something nice on top and sweatpants or pajama pants on the bottom. You may need to get up for some reason or another, and it will look poorly on you if you are only partially dressed. You can always change after the interview.
4.) Check your lighting and background.
When preparing for a virtual interview, be sure you are in an environment that is free of mess and has good lighting. The interviewers are getting a peek into how you live at home, and it can influence their perceptions on how you may treat your workplace. Additionally, lighting is important so they do not have to struggle to see you or be blinded by glare. If you have the option, move your interview to the neatest and most neutral-lit room in your home. If this is not an option, take the time to straighten up in advance.
5.) Be distraction free.
Just like in an in-person interview, it is critical that you remain focused on the people you are speaking with. This means removing any and all distractions that can draw your attention away. Consider putting your phone on silent or in another room so you are not tempted to check it. Turn off any background music you may have playing and try to keep yourself isolated for the interview. If you live with family, make them aware of your interview ahead of time so they know not to disturb you for that period unless it is an emergency.
For additional tips, check out these articles:
https://www.flexjobs.com/blog/post/8-tips-successful-online-interview/
https://online.hbs.edu/blog/post/virtual-interview-tips
To check out Big Interview, follow this link:
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