Gone are the days when you would still go to an in-person interview, firmly shake hands and sit right across the interviewer. With the emergence of remote jobs due to the pandemic, conducting a virtual interview is the new normal for hiring managers and HR professionals.
A virtual or online interview via video call or a video conferencing platform is no different from having it in person. Other than not being physically present with the interviewer, the only addition is the use of technology. Here are some tips on how you can ace your virtual interview and land your remote dream job.
1. Research about the job and the company
Like all interviews whether in person or virtual, knowing some vital information about the position you’re applying for and the company will make you confident in answering questions about your skills and how you can be valuable to the team. By focusing on the vacant job, you can present yourself as an expert in the field. Reading about the company beforehand can show your interest and make you more proactive in giving details about why they should hire you.
2. Dress professionally (appropriately)
Even if you are at home, it is important that you treat this virtual interview just as you would in person. Take out your corporate attire, dress nicely and be presentable in front of the camera. It is important to look your best because first impressions last. Since you are applying for remote work, how you look on the screen is how you will be seen for the rest of your employment.
3. Conduct the interview in a conducive environment
If you don’t have a home office setup yet, choose a spot in your house where there is a strong signal, good lighting, free from distractions, noise-proof, and has a presentable background. In this way, you can be focused on the interview from start to finish. Being distracted by unnecessary noise or people in your household can make a mark on how you are as a remote worker.
4. Prepare the tech you’ll need
Check your laptop or desktop. There should be no power interruptions during the interview. Make sure you have easy access to the necessary video conferencing platform that you will use. Test your earphones or microphone to see if you can speak and be heard clearly. Do all these before your schedule to avoid having technical difficulties and waste time during the actual interview. What you also want to avoid is disconnection or lag so make sure you have stable internet connection and have a plan B using mobile data just in case.
5. Just be yourself
It’s normal to practice your answers to interview questions but make sure you won’t sound robotic and monotonous. Be natural and authentic. Do not be stiff or too controlled. Put your best foot forward but show the real you. Establish rapport by creating conversations other than the question and answer portion. It’s also good if you can look straight into the camera while answering questions so you still maintain eye contact with the interviewer even in a virtual setup.
Bonus tip: Follow up on your application status
Since you have undergone the interview, it would mean that you already took one step further in the application process. By following up, you also show how interested you are to get the position. You can thank the interviewer again for taking the time to get to know you and ask questions you might have forgotten during the video call.
These are just some of the most important tips to help you make a good impression on your interviewer. When you perfect all these, you can be sure that you will be remembered as the one who the interviewer had a good conversation with.