During COVID-19, business is anything but usual. That applies to job interviews, too. According to Handshake, an app that connects college students with employers, nearly 90% of employers are now conducting interviews online.
But as if an interview isn’t stressful enough on its own, adding Wi-Fi problems, at-home distractions and the challenges of reading body language spell anxiety.
Wondering how you can convey confidence and land the job? Below, we share our top tips on how to ace a virtual interview:
- Check your technology in advance
- Prepare beforehand
- Make your virtual identity professional
- Find a quiet, distraction-free zone
- Wear something that makes you feel confident
- Keep body language professional
- Be yourself
- Follow up
8 Tips for Remote Interviews
Just like an in-person interview, virtual interviews require prep. Read on to learn how to make a great (virtual) impression!
1. Check Your Technology in Advance
The day before your interview, run a quick check of the technology you’ll be using:
- Make sure your computer’s camera and microphone are in good working order.
- Download and familiarize yourself with the software you’ll be using. Whether it’s Zoom, Google Hangouts or something else, you’ll want to know how to work it ahead of time.
- Ask a friend to do a quick mock interview with you to make sure the picture and sound are clear.
- At least 10 minutes before your interview, jump on a phone or video meeting and perform one last check for your camera and microphone.
2. Prepare Beforehand
A virtual interview is not an open-book test – even though you’ll be on your computer, it’s a big no-no to look up answers or read pre-written responses. The interview should feel like a natural conversation. To get there, take some time to review the company and job description and think through your answers to likely interview questions.
3. Make Your Virtual Identity Professional
It’s tempting to wear comfy clothes at home, but a professional look is best for virtual interviews. Pick out your outfit the day before and test how it looks on camera. Small patterns, for example, often don’t look great compared to solid colors.
Make sure the background of your video is professional as well. A neutral, uncluttered background with plenty of natural light behind you (not shining in your face) is best. If natural light proves elusive in your home, try using a selfie ring light for a polished glow.
Finally, watch your body language. Don’t slouch in your seat. To convey energy and enthusiasm:
- Set your computer at a desk or table (not your lap)
- Pull your chair a bit away from the computer
- Sit up straight
- Plant your feet firmly on the ground
- Place your hands on the table
4. Find a Quiet, Distraction-Free Zone
The last thing you want is for barking dogs, curious kids or loud construction noises to interrupt your virtual interview.
Scope out a quiet space in your house where distractions are minimal. Again, uncluttered space is critical – you want the interviewer to focus on you, not your messy bookshelves. If your home lacks an office, consider using a guest bedroom, a cleared-out closet or your kitchen table.
If family members or roommates will be at home during your interview, make sure they’re aware of when it’s happening and where you’re setting up. Politely ask them to remain quiet during that time.
If distractions seem unavoidable, let your interviewer know at the beginning of your call or video chat. After all, we’re human and dealing with unusual working conditions these days. Plus, saying something at the outset of your interview demonstrates proactive thinking.
5. Wear Something That Makes You Feel Confident
As mentioned above, professional clothing is a must. Full-blown business attire often isn’t necessary, but at least shoot for business casual.
Most importantly, your interview outfit should make you feel confident. Avoid fabrics that make you uncomfortable, hot or show sweat. Consider wearing a Thompson Tee sweat proof undershirt so you don’t have to worry about armpit sweat marks forming during your interview. You’ll look — and feel — calm and collected, no matter what questions come your way.
6. Keep Body Language Professional
During virtual interactions, body language and other visual cues can get lost in translation. For example, a handshake is an important body language signal that an interview is beginning (and ending). It also establishes your relationship with the interviewer.
To make a professional impression and convey enthusiasm and warmth through the internet:
- Position your camera so your face is center on the screen.
- Smile and wave “hello” to your interviewer with eye contact (in other words, look at your camera, not the screen).
- Focus on the screen and your camera for the duration of the interview. Don’t check your email or gaze out the window when the interviewer is speaking.
7. Be Yourself
Virtual interviews come with unique challenges, but they also present an opportunity. Instead of interviewing in an unfamiliar location, you can feel more relaxed at home. Lean into that feeling to show the interviewer who you are and why you’d be a great addition to their team.
8. Follow Up
Check in with your interviewer within 24 hours after your conversation. Send a follow-up email thanking them for the opportunity and let them know you’re happy to answer any additional questions.
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