How To Nail Your Virtual Job Interview- All You Need To Know!

The virtual job interview has become the new norm due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures. Many industries are hiring online through live virtual job interviews or prepared job virtual interviews.

Live virtual job interviews consist of two way interaction meeting conducted online using video conference software. The interviews are scheduled in advance and candidates interact in real time with the recruiters.

Recorded virtual job interviews are the automation of the interviews. In other words, candidates complete the interviews at their convenience, record their response. No scheduling is required and the candidates can review their responses before submitting their final record.

If you’ve got a virtual job interview coming up, check out the below tips about how to nail your virtual job interview. All you need to know!

Virtual job interview best practices

Tip 1: Prepare and practice

Preparation is key to rock a virtual job interview. This includes reading the job description and connect it to your skills, research the organization, review your answers, use the STAR method, consider answers to common interview questions, prepare questions to the interviewer and last but not least practice, practice and practice.

You can use some mock videos to help you with rehearsing your answers and controlling the time.

It is important that you research the company through reading reviews from current employees on Glassdoor, reading the website and checking out their social media. Likewise, spend a few minutes looking up the interviewer on LinkedIn.

Have your resume or cover letter printed and keep a timer next you. You can also prepare a sheet of keywords to help you recall some information in case you forget but don’t over do it. You can also try placing your notes side-by-side on top of your computer keyboard. You’ll still have to look down, but the angle of your gaze will be as shallow as possible.

The last tip that would differentiate you from other candidates is to prepare some useful sheets or short presentation that you can ask the interviewer to share on the screen. First start with your statement, then request the interviewer the permission to share your document, don’t scroll too fast so that the interviewer can follow with you.

Tip 2: Test your setup

Set yourself up in a room with minimum distraction and check your internet connectivity. You don’t want your internet to cut out halfway through or to realise half an hour beforehand that you don’t have the right technology to join the meeting. Ensure you provide your phone number to the interviewer in case you get disconnected.

Test your camera, microphone and familiarise yourself with the technology/software your interviewer sent to you ahead of time. Check the features, test it, login and logout, the main purpose is to have an overview on how it works.

Ideally you need to use a computer (it looks more professional) and put it on several books so that you are not looking down at the camera. Your eye level should be equal to the interviewer. It is better to mute your computer notifications prior to the interview.

Tip 3: Background and lighting

The background behind you should look professional, no need to have strange posters or open door behind you in the camera. As for the lighting, it is very important that is straight to your face (no lighting from up or down or sides), position yourself in front of a window or use affordable lights.

Tip 4: Dress professionally

Treat this job interview exactly as you would if you were meeting the hiring manager in person.

Wearing smart attire will put you in the right mindset for an interview. Consider a solid contrasting outfit and practice looking at the camera. Try to smile a little more than usual.

Tip 5: Sell yourself

Use this time to show your personality. Lead with a smile and don’t be afraid to laugh and engage with the interviewer. Although there is physical distance between you and the interviewer, you should still treat a job virtual interview as if you were in the office. One way to show your interviewer that you’re motivated and engaged is by practicing active listening. Consider nodding your head to give affirmations of understanding while they talk, and asking clarifying questions when necessary.

To ensure you can perform in your video interview, preparation is vital. This is your time to sell yourself as the ideal candidate, as a valuable employee. Do not let technology throw you off.

Tip 6: Send thank you email

Remember to send a follow-up “thank you” email to your interviewer before the end of the day with a personal note about something you discussed. If you have any additional follow-up questions about the job or hiring process, this would be a good time to ask. All the best!

Originally published at https://jobsblend.com on February 17, 2021.