8 Virtual Interview Tips to Having a Successful Interview

The COVID-19 pandemic has shown that using videoconferencing software to recruit employees is here to stay. Which is why we are sharing our 8 best virtual interview tips.

The corporate world has quickly adapted to innovations and technology to save time and increase the efficiency of interviews. Several companies are leveraging virtual interviews to remotely access the suitability of potential employees and also narrow down the number of applicants.
Unlike physical interviews, these interviews give the employer a visual outlook of a candidate’s interpersonal skills and they are cost-effective compared to setting up a physical interview.
For candidates, a virtual interview offers the benefit of choosing a comfortable location of your choice and removes the risk of travelling to far places for an interview.

Virtual Interview Tips: How to Prepare For A Successful Video Interview

The key to having a successful virtual interview relies on how you prepare for it beforehand.
Here are eight virtual interview tips that will offer guidance on how to nail a virtual interview, and land your next job.

1. Strong Internet is Essential
   Time is of the essence when it comes to interviews. There is nothing worse than realizing five minutes to your meeting that you do not have a strong internet connection.
   You do not want disconnected audios and cracked videos where the interviewers can’t see you throughout the interview.
   So, test your internet connection a day ahead of time so you aren’t struggling and adding to your stress the morning of the interview.
2. Test Your Tech Equipment
   Do not assume that all the components of your computer are in perfect condition. Before the interview, carry out a test run on them so you know if you should get additional equipment.
   Most computers today have great enough microphone quality that you can go with. But to be on the safe side, external microphones and headphones are a useful addition to your tech gadgets.
   Also, never attend a virtual interview via a smartphone, you should use either a desktop or a laptop.
3. Practice for the Interview
   If this your first video interview, it might seem like an odd process; this is why practice is essential.
   In physical interviews, handshakes as a form of greeting are usually used, but this is not possible in a virtual environment. You have to practice how to be professional and courteous at the same time to leave a good impression.
   Virtual eye contact can seem difficult but ironically, it is simply staring right in the eye of the camera. To look natural, have a mix of back and forth focus between the screen and camera.
   Video conferencing platforms like Zoom allow you to record a meeting so you can practice on the platform to know how much corrections you need to make before the interview.
4. Set up Your Surroundings
   Always try to remember if the interview was happening physically, it will be in their environments.
   Set the interview in a place that eliminates distractions because you want the interviewer to be focused on hearing what you bring to the table.
   Be sure to eliminate interruptions; silence your phones, close windows to avoid horns, and make sure your computer is on a steady surface.
   Your surroundings should not detract you from coming off as smart, capable, and ready to take on serious and innovative work.
5. Practice Your Answers
   There’s no way to know the questions the interviewer might ask, but you should have answers to commonly asked questions. A few of these questions are salary requirements, your weaknesses, what you will bring to the team, etc.
   Preparing beforehand helps you think on your feet during the interview. Since you want the conversation to flow naturally, do not memorize your responses.
   If you have a few points you want to make, you can put a small sticky note on your screen (to help you stay focused. As you practice answering, be sure to modulate your voice to emphasize certain points and convey emotion.
6. Build a Connection
   You need to make an impression during your interview to get a callback. It can be difficult to make connections via a computer screen, that’s why you need to research the company and potential employer.
   This is very important because it gives you an idea into common interests and goals that you can use to connect. You’ll want to do thorough research across their social media channels, articles on them, and press statements to come ready with the best questions and answers.
7. Be Yourself
   Most importantly, be yourself. As tough as it may be in any interview, try to relax and let your personality and skills shine. Since you may not be able to convey enthusiasm as much on video as in person, make sure to explain why you think you’re a great fit for the role and why you’re enthusiastic about joining the company.
8. Follow Up Afterward
   Treat a virtual interview the same way you would a face-to-face one. It’s standard to send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Following up is an important tip that will set you apart and give you a chance to be remembered. To ensure your note helps you stand out and reminds the interviewer of your conversation, keep it concise and include something they said during the interview.

Common Virtual Interview Mistakes to Avoid

To have a successful virtual interview, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid.

1) Do Not Get Flustered
If the technology or your internet fails you, stay calm and attempt to reconnect.

2) Do Not Fidget
This can be a distraction during the interview and will appear unprofessional. If you are an anxiety-prone person, try to hold a stress ball or tugging a rubber band under the desk.

3) Do Not Run Programs in The Background
Avoid running programs or downloading things because this can disrupt the interview. If you are using a Wi-Fi connection, ensure you are the only one connected so it will not slow down your connection.

4) Avoid Chairs With Wheels
Chairs with wheels can make you swivel which is a form of distraction during the interview. Also, you can end up slouching or altering your sitting position without you knowing.

5) Ask Questions
The virtual interviewer can feel an interrogation room that is tiring for the interviewers. To demonstrate your enthusiasm and show your knowledge, ask insightful questions so it will not feel like a one-sided conversation.

Virtual interviews are becoming increasingly popular thanks to the benefits they bring to employers.
If you’re invited to a virtual interview, it’s important to approach it with the same professional mindset as you would a face-to-face meeting. Take the time to be prepared and ensure you have the right types of equipment and connection to give yourself the best chance of success.

Good luck and happy interviewing!

Do you have any other virtual interview tips to have a successful virtual interview? Let us know in the comment section below. Don’t forget to share!