Interviewing can be a difficult process but a little preparation goes a long way! Check out our virtual interview tips…

The past two years have led to a boom in virtual interviews, allowing employers and candidates to join interviews whenever and wherever. However, when your interview is scheduled online, there are even more components to consider compared to in-person conversations.

It’s essential you make a good impression regardless of where you’re interview takes place, so to help you make the best impression, here are a few things to keep in mind.

1. Test your equipment

Make sure that your webcam is working and angled correctly, and that your mic is working before joining the interview. If an issue does arise ensure you’ve given yourself as much time as possible to resolve any potential issues (It’s best to test these functions a day or more ahead of time) as this will enable you to be ready as soon as your time slot begins!

2. Frame your background well

Take some time to ensure that whatever is in your background is tidy and presentable. You’ll also want to make sure that the internet connection and lighting are favorable so that you can be seen.

It’s also important to take note of the noise and traffic pollution in your home. If you have a family who lives with you, take the proper steps to make sure there aren’t people coming in and out of frame or causing a lot of noise during your interview.

3. Don’t forget all the typical interview standards

While you may be sitting at home or in the kitchen it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t follow all the normal interview standards and procedures as you would if it were in person. You should still take extra care to be attentive, ask good questions, wear something professional, take care of your hair and face, and be mindful of your facial expressions.

4. Be prepared to present past work

It may be necessary for your to share your screen and show off your skills displayed in previous projects. So it’s important you take a few minutes to tidy up your desktop and create a folder of any files that you may want to reference for your interviewer.

5. Build a rapport

Establishing rapport is important in any business relationship because it allows you to separate yourself from other candidates by building a personal connection with the interviewer.

When communicating virtually, it’s still necessary to find ways to establish rapport. You can do this by talking about a common interest, asking how your interviewer’s experience has been with virtual interviews or by finding some other neutral topic with which to learn more about your interviewer.

6. Follow up

After your interview, it’s still good the follow up on your virtual experience with a well-timed email – this is usually within the first 24 hours of an interview. The email should consist of thanking the interviewer for their time and letting them know you’re available if they have any additional questions.

Interviewing can be a difficult process but a little preparation goes a long way! When you follow this advice, it’s only a matter of time before you land the right job.