7 Virtual Interview Tips to Land Your Dream Job
By Stephen Pedder Virtual job interviews are no less important than in-person ones. They require just as much preparation. But exactly how should you get ready for this possibly career-changing day?
We’ve got you covered here at AdCulture. With our top seven virtual interview tips, you’ll be seven steps closer to your dream job.
Scroll through to start getting ready for your next virtual job interview!
Prepare Your Tech Equipment
Ensuring that your tech equipment is stable and ready to help you ace the interview will reduce “job interview stress” dramatically.
Test your computer’s webcam, microphone, and internet connection at least a day or two before the interview. This way you’ll still have some time to fix the equipment if you spot any problems.
Check if the software/platform where the interview will be held is also running optimally from your end. Whether it will be held on Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet, etc., be sure you know how to operate it to avoid any technical issues during the interview.
At least half an hour before the interview, have all your equipment switched on and ready to go! If you’re using a laptop, ensure that it’s fully charged.
Let’s say your interview is at 3:00 P.M., then log onto the software/platform in advance so that you can join the meeting a few minutes earlier instead of on the dot.
Setup Your Space
Your interview space and background should be quiet, neat-looking, well-lit, and without distractions. Not only will this add points for professionalism, but it will also ensure that the focus remains on you.
Set up your computer on a table instead of on your lap. It’s best to keep the webcam at eye level with you as the center of the frame.
And since you’re going to be talking for quite a long time, don’t forget to have a glass of water ready next to you!
Prepare Your Notes
Consider having a printed copy of your resume ready next to you for quick reference, just in case you might forget some important details about your work experience, etc.
Preparing answers to common interview questions is also one of our top virtual interview tips. Instead of memorizing the answers, simply have a clear idea of the points you’d like to share and highlight. These are some of the common questions you might want to start constructing your views on:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “Why should we hire you?”
- “Why do you want to work at this company?”
- “If you were to be hired, what would be your biggest contribution to this company?”
- “Tell me about a challenge or conflict you’ve faced at work, and how you handled the situation.”
- “What is your biggest strength and weakness?”
- “Do you have any questions about the position or the company?”
Now’s the perfect time to use those sticky notes on your desk! If there are some important points you’d like to mention, simply write them down and stick them near your screen.
Although it’s really handy to have notes ready, remember to avoid referring to them as much as possible. This way you can ensure that your answers come across more naturally.
Do Your Research on the Company
Would you want to work for a company that you know nothing about? Would someone hire you if you know nothing about the company?
Doing some research about the company you’ve applied to is one of the most important virtual interview tips that shouldn’t be neglected. Having a clear understanding of the company will enable you to ask the necessary questions during the interview, which ultimately shows that you have a true interest in the company and in the position.
Wear Your Best Job Interview OOTD
Always dress for success — even if it’s a virtual interview. Not only will it display an impressive level of professionalism, but being well-dressed will also empower you to do your absolute best.
Whether you decide to wear a button-down shirt and slacks or a blazer and skirt, just dress up as if you were attending an in-person interview.
Relax and Be Professional
Another important virtual interview tip to keep in mind is to be relaxed and be professional in the most authentic way possible. Here are some of the ways you can achieve this:
- Practice breathing exercises before the interview.
- Maintain good posture.
- Make eye contact with the interviewer. When speaking, look at the camera instead of at your screen.
- Speak concisely.
- Don’t be stiff. Make conversation with the hiring manager. One important element that they look out for is your ability to blend in with the company’s culture. Leave an impression that’s both friendly and professional.
Setup a Mock Interview with a Friend or Relative
If you want to see how well your job interview communication skills translate onto a screen, try setting up a mock virtual interview with a friend or relative. If you record it and watch playback, you can see how you presented yourself and if there’s anything you think might need fixing.
If you tend to look away from the camera, talk too slow or too fast, or lose proper posture, then a mock interview will show you exactly what needs to be worked on. It’s one of the most effective ways to improve your job interview skills!
Virtual Interview Tips That Will Make An Impact
Preparation and presentation will always be vital factors in acing an interview. While it isn’t possible to predict exactly how a job interview will go, these seven virtual interview tips will surely be key elements that will make the entire process less stressful and more impactful.
AdCulture is here to connect the unicorns of their field with the companies they dream of working at. If you’re exceptionally talented, our team is the digital advertising recruitment firm that will bring you a step closer to getting hired.
We’ll equip you with the necessary tips and tricks to help you reach your career goals! Contact us today.
