Your resume got noticed and you’ve been asked to have an interview. There is just one catch—it’s a virtual job interview. As technology continues to evolve, the workplace has been quick to follow suit in adopting new innovations to save time and increase efficiency. Whether the position will be remote, the role is in a different part of the country, or the employer is unable to have an interview at the job location, it’s important to be just as prepared for a virtual interview as an in-person one. Here are some of our best tips for preparing for a virtual interview.
1. Test Your Technology
Since a virtual interview will be held over the computer, it is important to test out the technology you will be using—whether it be a laptop or desktop computer—to make sure the interview can be conducted without any interruptions. First, make sure you have a reliable internet connection, being mindful that some places in the house may have poorer connection than others. Next, make sure you have the appropriate video conferencing software downloaded. Lastly, check that your video camera and microphone are working properly.
2. Be Prepared
Before the interview begins, make sure to do thorough research of both the company and the position you are interviewing for. Use a reliable and professional pen to make notes with, like the G-350 Gel Retractable Pen. It features Rapid Dry Gel Ink technology that won’t let your notes smear when you need them most. Or, try the STEEL ALL METAL F-701 Ballpoint Retractable Pen. It is made of durable metal from the tip to the clip and gives a smooth writing experience. Using a professional pen can help you feel more confident before and during the interview. Learn more about how you can Choose Different with your pen choice. A final tip: Write all of your notes and follow-up questions on sticky notes and attach them to the side of your computer screen so that they are readily available, and you won’t need to flip through a notebook to find them during the interview.
3. Minimize Distractions
You want this interview to be as professional as an in-person interview would be. Take time to find in a quiet room with limited distractions, away from other noises in the house. Make sure the room has a flat surface for your computer that is well lit. To eliminate unnecessary noise and distractions, close all windows and silence your cell phone and any other devices at least 10 minutes before the interview. This will give you a few extra minutes to set up and be present. If you live in a household with multiple people, try to book the virtual interview when there are less family members or roommates home.
4. Look the Part
Even though you may be in the comfort of your home, it is crucial to appear professional and exude confidence. Dressing in business formal clothing can help put you in the right frame of mind and show your interviewer that you are serious about the interview. Simple practices like maintaining eye contact with the camera, giving non-verbal cues like nodding your head, and making sure to answer questions thoroughly can also help you stand out against the competition. Remember most of all, to look the part while staying authentic to your true self.
5. After the Interview
Once the interview is complete, send a follow-up thank you email within 24 hours. The email should be brief but genuine to the interview experience you had and express your gratitude and excitement for being considered for the position. Thank the interviewer for taking time out of their day to speak to you, remind them that you are excited about the possibility of working at their company, and add something personal from the interview. This will help reinforce what was said and show that you were engaged and present during the interview. There is no reason to be nervous about a virtual job interview. Video interviews may feel strange and awkward at first, but they are not that much different from an in-person interview. As long as you go in confident, knowledgeable, and be your genuine self, there is no reason the interview won’t be successful. For more professional career tips, check out our blog post on 5 Steps to Managing Your Time More Efficiently.
