The Successful Virtual Job Interview
Three tips to nail your next virtual interview—even during COVID-19
There is never a “bad time” to be on the lookout for your dream job. It is impossible to know when that dream job will open up. Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, job openings proved to be unpredictable. But, regardless of whether the job market is slower now, or not, there is no time like the present to freshen up your resume and get ready for the Zoom, Skype, virtual based interviews in your future.
COVID-19 has changed the interviewing landscape. If you are searching for your next career—it is imperative to be ready to interview online. Interviewing does not come naturally for most. It is a learned skill. Your ability to “interview well” in-person or virtually will improve as you gain confidence and practice. Below are three tips to help you prep and make a stellar virtual first impression:
Check your background:
If you have read articles on interviewing via Zoom or another virtual platform, you are probably aware that pajama pants are not advised. If you have taken the time to prep, get dressed in interview-appropriate attire, do not forget about what is behind you. Test your video to see what can be seen before joining the call. Ideally, the less clutter and visually distracting items, the better. If you do not have a home office—do not panic. But, do try to steer away from the bedroom.
Set up your computer on the kitchen table, get seated, and test out different angles or walls—taking down decor, if needed. The key word being TEST your video. You want to put your best foot forward in a job interview. COVID-19 has put everyone in a virtual world, so remember, your interviewer might be facing the same set up issues and they do not expect perfection. It is OK if you do not have a stunning home office. Everyone knows these are not ideal times, and we are all trying to be flexible and adjust. It is the effort that counts and makes for a nice first impression.
Look at the interviewer, not yourself!
Whether you are in your first round job interview or final round, keep your gaze on the interviewer. It is easy to get distracted by the little box that shows you on camera. Especially, if you are nervous about how you are presenting during the interview. Unfortunately, everyone knows the upper right-hand box is you not them. If it helps to completely minimize the box, use that feature to help you resist looking at yourself. The more attention you give your interviewer, the better. Your interviewer wants to know you care more about the job than yourself!
And, if you read tip #1, you will have already tested how you look prior to the interview starting it.
Use non-verbal communication to ensure your interviewer knows you are engaged, even from a distance:
While the interviewer is asking questions, or responding to you—do not forget to nod or use appropriate non-verbal communication to come across focused, interested, and engaged in the interview. If you are unable to hear what the interviewer says, you can lean forward or point to your ear to que the interviewer you cannot hear them, perhaps due to a poor connection or unexpected background noise. Have them repeat the question if you did not hear it the first time. Act as if you would if you were in an in person interview. Non-verbal communication is a natural way to stay engaged and at ease.
Mastering the virtual interview will take time to get used to. Practice online with your peers or family to get comfortable before interviewing for your dream job. Remember, hiring managers and recruiters want you to succeed. Their job is to present quality candidates. They want to be able to pitch you to move you on in the interview process. Help them succeed by integrating the three key job interviewing tips above. Showcase yourself—putting your best foot forward. COVID-19 may have altered the job hunt and interview tactics, but it is still possible to make career moves during the pandemic.
Stay safe, and wishing you much success in your next virtual interview(s).