You have applied for your dream job and they have contacted you for an interview. Surprise…it is a virtual interview. You’ve never done virtual interviews before and now you are getting nervous.
Virtual interviews are becoming commonplace now to cut down on travel costs. Usually, they are used for your first round and employers use them to get to know you and determine if they wish to move you to the next round of interviews. But some companies are using them for second and third-round interviews as well. So it is important you are prepared for this type of interview and know how to use the technology.
Tips for Virtual Interviews
So how do you make a good impression and ace the interview? Here are a few tips to help”
1. Look at the Camera
By looking at the camera, the person on the receiving end thinks you are looking at them. If you are watching the computer screen it appears you are looking at the keyboard and not paying attention. If you want to watch yourself onscreen, move the box closer to the top near your camera lens. This also cuts down on drastic eye movements.
2. Lighting
Make sure you have sufficient light in the room where you will be interviewing. The interviewer will want to see you, not shadows.
3. Dress Professional
Dress for an interview from head to toe. If they ask for something and you need to get up to get it, you will look ridiculous if you are only dressed professionally from the waist up.
4. Grooming is Essential
The interviewer will probably see you up-close on the screen. Most likely closer than they would during a regular interview, it is important to make sure you have taken some time to groom yourself. Comb your hair, brush your teeth, floss, remove unwanted facial hair, and use some light make-up if female.
5. Background is Important
Set your computer or phone up in front of a calm area without distracting things in the background. Everything they see will shape what they think of you. Don’t skip this step. I have heard of candidates who did not get jobs because of all the clutter in the room.
6. Colors to Wear
While you want to be professional, you also want to wear colors that complement your complexion and are not too busy on the screen.
- Refrain from polka dots or busy prints.
- Stick with solid colors if possible.
- Avoid white, bright red and all-black outfits. All three of these colors pose technical problems.
- Jewel colors show up best.
- Keep jewelry simple.
7. Sounds
We talked about distracting visual backgrounds, quiet the noise. Sounds can be distracting to you and the interviewer.
8. Speak Clearly
Now is not the time to mumble. Make sure you practice speaking clearly and loud enough so the interviewer can hear you.
9. Important Documents
Have a copy of your resume next to you, as well as paper and pen to take notes, and some pre-written interview questions (At least two) that you want to ask them. Treat this the same as an in-person interview.
10. Practice
Do a few trial-runs with someone to see how you look, sound, and how comfortable this interviewing format is. It helps to use the technology in advance so you feel confident. It IS unnerving, so to rock out, you need to try to practice to feel comfortable and shine.
Follow these tips and you should have a great virtual interview.
Do You Need More Help?
If you would like more help preparing for virtual interviews, consider working with me, your Career Coach, Rachel Schneider, at Career Find. We can schedule a meeting to create a resume that will differentiate you from other candidates and practice virtual interviewing.