In today’s world, virtual interviews are no longer a rarity; they’ve become a norm. Whether you’re navigating the waters of a new job hunt or looking to make a career change, mastering the art of the virtual interview is essential. Interviews on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet can feel a bit intimidating at first, but with the right preparation and mindset, you’ll not only feel comfortable, but you’ll also be able to make a fantastic impression.
Let’s dive into some friendly but essential do’s and don’ts to help you nail your next virtual interview.
1. Set Up Your Space Like a Pro
One of the first things a hiring manager notices in a virtual interview is your setup. It may seem minor, but the right background can make a huge difference in the overall impression you give. Let’s talk about how to make it work for you:
- Choose a Clean, Neutral Background
A plain wall, a tidy bookshelf, or a simple painting works well. Avoid distractions like clutter or loud décor behind you. You want your interviewer’s attention on you, not your background. - Check Your Lighting
Natural light works best, so try to face a window. If natural light isn’t an option, set up a lamp in front of you to avoid shadows. This little effort in lighting shows that you’re prepared and detail-oriented. - Keep It Quiet
Make sure you’re in a quiet space where you won’t be disturbed. If possible, close the door, turn off any background music, and silence your phone to minimize distractions.
2. Dress Professionally (From Head to Toe)
Even though you’re interviewing from home, dressing professionally from top to bottom is essential. Why? Because it not only affects how others perceive you but also boosts your confidence.
- Choose Appropriate Attire
Just like an in-person interview, wear business attire that matches the company’s culture. Look up the company’s LinkedIn page to get a sense of how formal their dress code might be. - Avoid Overly Busy Patterns
On camera, simple, solid colors look best. Patterns or stripes may not translate well and can be distracting. Choose something that’s professional but also comfortable.
3. Test Your Tech Beforehand
In virtual interviews, tech issues are one of the biggest pitfalls. Avoid awkward delays and tech mishaps by testing your equipment and software well before the interview.
- Check Your Internet Connection
A strong, stable internet connection is essential. Sit close to your Wi-Fi router or use an Ethernet cable if possible to minimize any connectivity issues. - Familiarize Yourself with Zoom (or Other Platforms)
Many virtual interviews are done on platforms like Zoom or Microsoft Teams, so make sure you’re comfortable navigating the one your interviewer is using. Practice joining a meeting, muting/unmuting, and sharing your screen if necessary. - Double-Check Your Sound and Video
Do a sound and video check before the interview to ensure that your microphone and camera work well. Using headphones with a built-in mic can help avoid echo and improve sound quality.
4. Body Language: Speak with Confidence
Virtual interviews present unique challenges for expressing body language, but the good news is that you can still make a strong impression through the screen.
- Sit Up Straight and Make Eye Contact
Eye contact is key to building rapport. Position your camera at eye level and look directly into it when speaking; this will give the impression of eye contact. - Use Hand Gestures Sparingly
While you want to appear animated and engaged, don’t go overboard with hand gestures. A few natural hand movements can add emphasis without being too distracting. - Smile!
A warm, friendly smile goes a long way in showing that you’re approachable and excited about the role. Smiling can also help calm your nerves and project a more confident demeanor.
5. Prepare Your Answers – and a Few Questions
Preparation is key to any successful interview, but virtual interviews require a bit more finesse. Spend some time thinking about the types of questions they may ask and prepare concise, engaging answers.
- Research the Company
Show your enthusiasm by researching the company beforehand. Familiarize yourself with their values, recent projects, and culture. Incorporate this knowledge into your answers to show you’ve done your homework. - Practice Common Questions
Rehearse responses to typical interview questions like, “Tell me about yourself” or “Why do you want to work here?” Practice these responses with a friend or in front of the mirror to ensure they sound natural and polished. - Prepare Thoughtful Questions to Ask
Interviewers often close with, “Do you have any questions for us?” Use this opportunity to ask about the company culture, team dynamics, or how they support career development within the role.
6. Be Mindful of Virtual Interview Etiquette
Virtual interview etiquette may differ slightly from in-person, but many principles remain the same. Here are some friendly reminders for putting your best foot forward.
- Arrive Early (Digitally)
Aim to join the meeting a few minutes early. Being early shows punctuality and respect for your interviewer’s time. This also gives you a chance to double-check your tech one last time. - Use the Mute Button Wisely
When you’re not speaking, it’s often a good idea to mute yourself to minimize background noise. However, don’t forget to unmute when it’s time to respond! - Avoid Multitasking
It might be tempting to check your notes or peek at another screen, but try to stay fully focused on the conversation. Staying engaged will show that you’re attentive and fully invested in the opportunity.
7. Follow-Up with a Thoughtful Thank-You
The interview may be over, but your impression doesn’t end there. A timely follow-up email can leave a lasting positive impact and keep you top of mind for the role.
- Send a Thank-You Email
Within 24 hours, send a brief, polite email thanking the interviewer for their time. Mention a specific part of the conversation that stood out to you, whether it’s something about the role, the company culture, or a project you discussed. - Reiterate Your Interest in the Position
Reaffirming your interest in the job lets them know you’re genuinely excited about the opportunity and are eager to contribute to their team.
8. Keep Your Cool and Stay Positive
Lastly, it’s essential to stay calm, positive, and flexible. Virtual interviews can sometimes be unpredictable, and things may not go perfectly every time. Your attitude is just as important as your answers, so try to stay upbeat.
- Roll with Tech Glitches
If something goes wrong with the technology, don’t panic. Politely let your interviewer know, and they’ll likely understand. Adaptability is a valuable trait in any job, so handling a tech issue with grace can even work in your favor. - Remember to Breathe
A little nervousness is natural. Before the interview, take a few deep breaths to relax. During the interview, pause when needed to gather your thoughts—it shows you’re thoughtful and in control.
Virtual interviews are a key part of today’s job search landscape. By preparing well, creating a professional setup, and showing off your best self through the screen, you’ll not only increase your chances of landing the job but also feel more confident and empowered throughout your job hunt.
Remember, virtual interviews are as much an opportunity for you to assess if the company is the right fit for you as it is for them to evaluate you. So, take a deep breath, smile, and show them why you’re the perfect fit! Good luck with your career development journey, and happy job hunting!
LC Tavera Career Services 