A Guide to Virtual Job Interviews
Interviews are a standard part of the process when applying for a job. It gives both you and the employer a chance to speak with each other and determine if you would be a good fit for the position. It is important to be prepared so that you can make a good impression and both you and the employer get the most out of your time.
With the rise of digital technology being used in the workplace, it is becoming more common for employers to interview candidates virtually. While virtual interviews are similar to in-person interviews, it is helpful to take some extra things into consideration. Here are five tips to help you prepare for a virtual job interview!
What is the same and what is different?
For the most part, virtual interviews are not much different from traditional in-person interviews. Interviewers will ask you the same questions as they would in an in-person interview to get a sense of your qualifications and decide if you would be the right fit. Because of this similarity, it is important that you do the same preparation you would do for any job interview. This includes:
Researching the company and the position
Practicing answers to commonly-asked interview questions
Preparing to ask your own questions about the company and the position
Perhaps one of the biggest differences is that instead of going to meet the interviewer in-person, you will usually be sent a link to join an online meeting from another location. It is important to be on time for any interview, but unlike an in-person interview, it is not necessary to arrive 10-15 minutes early. Joining the meeting just 5 minutes in advance is perfectly fine, but feel free to join earlier if it would make you feel more comfortable.
Making a good impression
Like any other interview, it is important that you make a good impression. Even for a virtual interview, wear something that is comfortable and professional (at least from the waist up!). Unless otherwise instructed, business casual attire is always a good option.
Identify where your device’s camera is located so that you know where to look when answering questions. Making eye contact with the interviewer will help build connection and demonstrate your engagement.
When you are talking with the interviewer, make sure you speak clearly so that they can understand what you are saying. This is especially important when meeting online because sound can be difficult to hear through the microphone. If you are nervous for your interview, it is common to want to speak quickly. A good way to stay calm and ensure that the interviewer can understand you is by speaking slower than you think you need to.
Becoming familiar with the technology
Doing an interview virtually opens up the possibility of experiencing technological mishaps. To reduce this possibility, it is always a good idea to become familiar with the device and online platform that will be used. There are a few different types of platforms that employers may use for meetings such as Zoom, Google Meet, or Microsoft Teams. You can familiarize yourself with the platform by practicing with a friend or googling how to use different settings. Before your interview, make sure you know how to:
Join and leave the meeting
Turn on your camera
Turn on your microphone
Adjust the volume
Most platforms are designed to be very user-friendly, so learning how to use it should not be too difficult. When it is time for the interview, you can always join early to resolve potential issues before the interviewer is ready for you. If something does go wrong during the interview, it is okay to let the interviewer know, as they will likely be understanding and willing to help.
Picking a good location
Unlike with in-person interviews, virtual interviews give you the freedom to choose where you do your interview from. When picking a spot, consider the following:
Pick somewhere quiet. It is important that you have a private space that will not be distracting for you or the interviewer. You can also close windows, doors, or use headphones to reduce background noise.
Try to choose somewhere with good lighting. It is easier to converse with another person when they can see you! If you can, it is best to sit facing the light source.
Make sure that the spot has a reliable WiFi connection. This is always good to ensure that everything goes smoothly!
Once you find a space, be mindful of what the interviewer can see in the background. You can always use the online platform’s settings to blur your background or apply a professional, customized background. Avoid doing an interview from places like your bed, and try to sit at a desk or table in order to feel interview-ready!
Staying calm
It is normal to be a bit nervous before a job interview. In fact, being nervous might be a sign that this interview is important to you. It is okay to mention at the beginning of the interview that you are feeling nervous, as the interviewer has most likely been in your position before. This transparency might also help break the ice and demonstrate to them that you care about doing well. Always remember that job interviews are not meant to be an interrogation, but rather a conversation between you and the interviewer.
Here are some more tips to help with nerves:
Take a few deep breaths before joining the meeting.
Take pauses when answering questions. It is fine to take time to think about the question before responding.
Ask yourself: what comes to mind when you think of a confident person? Think about it and channel that energy!
Try to relabel your nervousness as excitement.
Good luck!
Proper preparation will be your key to success! Now that you have a sense of how to prepare, you can feel confident going into your next virtual job interview. Best of luck!
- Sophie Ashton, Co-op Student