Tips to Prepare You for Your Next Virtual Interview

For almost a decade, virtual interviews have been part of the hiring process -- even before these "unprecedented times." Falling somewhere between a very impersonal phone interview and a formal in-person interview, virtual interviews allow both the hiring manager and the potential employee to understand better how they may work together without costing anyone extra time or money.

Preparing for a virtual interview looks quite like preparing for any interview. You'll need to research the position and prepare for common interview questions. You'll also want to look at the company's social media accounts, check for any new press releases and maybe even look into their competitors.

How to prepare for a virtual interview?

There will be some additional preparations required for a virtual interview, especially if you aren't familiar with the platform they are using.

First, find a quiet space that is brightly lit, preferably in front of a bookshelf or blank wall. Or, if you are using Zoom, you can get a free virtual background.

You'll also want to make sure your phone or laptop is charged, silence all notifications, and make sure everyone who may be in the house knows you are not to be disturbed.

If your internet is unstable, download the interview software platform on your smartphone and use that instead. 

What should you wear for a virtual interview?

This isn't that different from an in-person interview as far as what you should wear. Yes, pants are required. Overall, you should wear at least business casual and avoid tops with small patterns, so you don't look fuzzy on camera.

Be aware of dangly earrings or chunky bracelets that may interfere with the audio or distract those watching and listening.

How early should you join a virtual interview?

When traveling for an in-person interview, there are many reasons you may wish to arrive early. These things can add up, from traffic to finding a parking place to needing a quick freshening up in the restroom. But what about a virtual interview? How early should you arrive?

The generally accepted answer is five to 10 minutes ahead of time. That way, when the person interviewing you is ready, you can get started -- without them having to wait for you.

How to answer virtual interview questions?

The content of your answers shouldn't vary just because you are on a video. But you may want to pay special attention to your tone. You don't want any delay or echo, so speak slowly and clearly.

Also, wait a few seconds after the other person has stopped talking before you begin to avoid cutting them off or interrupting them if they are pausing.

You also want to pay attention to your body language, sit up straight and try not to talk with your hands too much. Try to set up the camera to look squarely at your interviewer, not up or down at them.

Extra Tips for a Virtual Interview

• Practice recording yourself on video and playing it back to check audio and video quality.

• Be yourself, don't let technology prohibit you from showing your personality.

• Don't say anything you wouldn't want to be repeated during the interview as it may be recorded and shared with others.

• Use the mute button as you see fit, mainly if random noises occur during your interview when the other person is speaking.

• Set the name on your profile to your full name, include your pronouns and double-check that your profile is up-to-date with location and other information.

• Consider wearing earbuds during the interview so your interviewer can hear you clearly and so you can hear them.

Virtual interviews allow you to practice your interview technique without having to travel. Being open to participating in them may open more doors for your future. For more help with interviews, you can contact the Office of Career Services at GGU.

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