How to master the virtual interview

How to master the virtual interview

As technology has improved and more people are working remotely, virtual interviews are more prevalent than ever—and job hunters need to be prepared to complete them with the same level of professionalism and polish expected of any other job candidate in any other interview scenario.

What is a virtual interview?

There are two main types of virtual interviews: video calls and online prerecorded interviews. Video calls are live interviews done through conferencing programs like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts. Prerecorded interviews are exactly what they sound like: they’re sessions where you’re given recorded questions from the company, and you record and submit video responses.

This article will provide a step by step guide to both types of virtual interviews.

Preparing for a virtual interview: 

• Use a desktop computer or laptop if possible—but a tablet or smart phone can work if you have a good quality, adjustable stand.

• Modify your device’s settings to make sure your internet connection, camera and microphone are configured and working correctly (in case your webcam or microphone isn’t working and you need to purchase a new one).
  
• If you’re concerned about internet connectivity issues, you may want to contact your interviewer ahead of time and ask for a number to call if you experience technical difficulties—but check your interview invitation first. Platforms like Zoom include call-in numbers on meeting invitations.

• When facing the camera, you should be looking straight ahead, not up or down.
• Your whole head and shoulders should be visible in the camera’s view.
• If you wear glasses, you may need to make additional lighting adjustments or bring in another lamp to eliminate lens glare.

• Keep in mind that any camera adjustments you make before your call could affect what’s in view during your interview.

The day of your virtual interview:

1. Dress in your interview attire, from head to toe.

• Don’t skip the pants just because they aren’t in view! They may not be as comfortable, but it will be easier to communicate and present yourself professionally if you’re fully dressed in work appropriate clothing.
• Avoid bright, distracting colors or prints.

2. Eliminate as many distractions as possible: close your windows, silence your phone, turn off the TV and/or radio, and remove pets from the area.

During the virtual interview:

1. Be aware of your body language: make sure to sit up straight and make “eye contact” with the camera.

2. Be yourself! Smile and act naturally—even if you tend to be uncomfortable in front of a camera.

3. For video calls: give the other person a couple seconds to finish speaking before you respond.

• Because there may be a delay in transmission, this will ensure you don’t interrupt your interviewer.

4. If a housemate or pet comes into the room during the interview, Indeed.com recommends apologizing and ask for them to hold for a moment; then, promptly turn off your camera and mute your microphone before clearing the room of the distraction. (And if you’re completing a prerecorded interview, all you have to do is record that part again.)

 

After the virtual interview:

Send a thank you email to your interviewers within 24 hours of the interview—just as you would (or should) following an in-person interview.

####

The idea of completing a virtual interview may be scary or overwhelming for some people, but there’s no reason to stress about it any more than an in-person interview. Use this guide as you plan ahead and prepare, and employers will think you’re a virtual interviewing pro.

Follow BGS:

​​​