3 Keys to Nailing Your Next Virtual Interview
Employers are increasingly turning to virtual interviews to cut costs and expedite the recruitment process. If you are offered a video interview, don't panic! Despite the medium, virtual interviews are very similar to their face-to-face counterparts. Here are three of the most important things to remember to ensure your interview is successful.
Prepare Your Setup
Just as you wouldn't wait until the morning of an interview to check the driving directions, you should never wait until just before a virtual interview to prepare your computer. A little prep-work will prevent any technological hiccups that could compromise your interview.
Research the platform. Are you using Skype? Zoom? Something else? Install any necessary software and make certain that you know how to join the meeting. If possible, test out the software with a friend to make sure you're familiar with the basic controls.
Set up an interview space. Just because you can join your interview from anywhere doesn't mean you should. Before your interview, turn on your webcam and see what's visible behind you. Remove anything distracting or inappropriate for work, and clear any clutter. You don't want the interviewer to have any reason to question your professionalism.
Alert your family and roommates. Once you have set a time, make sure everyone you live with knows not to walk in during your interview! Make plans for someone to watch your kids or tend to your dog (if applicable), just to minimize all distractions.
Determine a Backup Plan
Even with the best preparations, it's possible that you might experience technical difficulties. Ideally, your interviewer will have communicated what to do if this happens. For instance, they might suggest joining the meeting from a mobile device if your computer glitches, or they may request a phone number so that they can call if you get disconnected.
If your interviewer hasn't made these plans clear, it might be worth shooting a quick email to ask. At the least, you should make sure you have your phone handy during the interview so that you can switch over if necessary. Also, note down your interviewer's contact info so that you can communicate about any issues.
Remember Your Interview Basics
When it comes down to it, a virtual interview is essentially the same as any other interview. Don't let the untraditional setting throw you off; you should still dress properly, keep your body language professional, and prepare thoroughly for likely questions. As long as you keep your wits about you, you'll be fine!
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