How to Prepare for a Virtual Interview

The scene of business is changing due to the global pandemic and technological advancement. Those who wish to succeed need to stay up to date with these changes.

One example of this change in the way businesses operate is the use of virtual interviews. 

To ensure you don’t get tripped up the next time you do a virtual interview, prepare accordingly.

Here’s how:

Double-Check Your Set-Up

You can’t have a virtual interview if you don’t even have the equipment set up, so this is the very first thing you need to check.

Set up your computer in an area of your home with the best internet connection and good lighting. Cool or natural lighting will make for the best user experience on the other end of the meeting.

Check the function of both your microphone and speakers to ensure they are both working correctly.

When you log onto the video chat platform, make sure your face is in the middle of the screen. You also want to position the camera well, so you don’t have to look up or down at the screen to see. 

You also want to learn the ins and outs of the video platform you’ll use, whether it’s Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or a unique platform. Review the software before the interview, and then you’ll be ready to go!

Act as if it’s Face to Face

A virtual interview may feel intimidating because of how different it will be from a face-to-face interview. But really, you should treat it exactly the same.

Dress and groom yourself as if you are meeting this person face to face. Brush up on the proper interview attire by checking out this quick read.

It can be challenging to make a personal connection over a video screen, but you must try! The can’t-fail way to do so is to make eye contact and smile. A slight nod isn’t unwarranted either. 

The important thing is that the interviewer feels like they are speaking to a person, not a computer. 

Prepare and Practice

As with anything, the more thoroughly you practice, the better you will become. So take a few minutes in the days before the interview to practice your video interviewing skills.

Set up a practice video chat with a friend or family member as if they are interviewing you. Give them a few questions to ask you.

Throughout your practice sessions, you may decide that you like a particular answer better or the wording of your introduction. Write these down.

Prepare notes on flashcards with easy-to-read lettering to glance at during the interview. 

Prevent Background Noise and Distractions

Before you log into the interview, take steps to prevent any background noise or other distractions from interrupting.

Loud noises are not only distracting to you but also your interviewer, so try to set up your computer in a quiet space.

If you usually have a full, bustling home, you may want to arrange a way for everyone to make themselves scarce for the time being.

At least ensure pets and children are quiet and secure during your interview. 

Use It To Your Advantage

Instead of thinking about how awkward it may feel to do your interview online, consider it a benefit and use it to your advantage.

You’re in your comfort zone at home. You should feel relaxed and confident. 

You can do your best to make a good impression with the best background. The area behind you should be clean and uncluttered. 

If you can’t find a suitable space, you can always opt for a virtual background as well. 

Another way to use this new technological way to find a job is to Google your interviewer. Most professionals have an online presence to showcase their career, but they may also have a private social profile.

Use their online profiles to find common ground to sprinkle in your conversation. But don’t let them know that you Googled them, of course.

Be Authentic

Whether your interview is online or in an office, your interviewer wants to get a picture of what type of person they will be hiring. Therefore, it’s vital that you let your personality shine!

Be genuine and don’t read from a script. Relax, but don’t slump. Don’t talk too fast nor too slow. Just be you. 

During the interview, learn to lob the ball back and forth with your interviewer. Keep the conversation going. Don’t expect the interviewer to do all the talking.  

Of course, when you do speak, make it insightful and make it count. 

The interviewer will almost assuredly ask if you have any questions. By all means, ask questions, but ask the right questions. Not sure what those are? This article will give you 51 examples. 

Ensure you show interest in the company and the advancement of the company. This will prove that you are a team player. 

Follow Up

After your interview has ended, you should always send a follow-up email within 24 hours. Use it to thank the interviewer and let them know you are still interested in the position.

This article will give you some simple and straightforward follow-up email templates that you can use. 

Conclusion

Virtual interviews are becoming more common as the years pass. Don’t let the next one catch you off guard.

Practice these tips for when you have an online interview. They may be the key to landing your next prominent position.

Author bio

Adam Marshall is a freelance writer who specializes in all things apartment organization, real estate, and college advice. He currently works with Grove at Murfreesboro to help them with their online marketing.