How To Prepare for a Virtual Interview
With the rise of video conferencing platforms like Zoom, virtual interviews have become increasingly common. Job seekers can easily connect with companies all over the world from the comfort of their own homes. Virtual interviews also expand the talent pool to international candidates, so companies are able to connect with a wider range of applicants.
In today’s environment, we connect with many candidates through video conferencing. Though the meeting may not be in person, there are many tactics to keep in mind as you prepare. We have assembled a list of tips to help you get ready for your next virtual interview.
How Can I Prepare My Environment?
Preparing your environment is equally important as preparing your interviewing skills. These tips will help you ensure that your conversation goes uninterrupted and the recruiter is able to focus on you.
• Choose a Distraction-Free Background: As you prepare to join the call, ensure that your environment is free of visual and auditory distractions. This is especially important for candidates who live with others or have pets.
• Test Your Equipment: Prior to joining the call, verify that your audio and video is working properly. Many video conferencing softwares offer testing options that you can utilize ahead of time.
How Can I Prepare My Interviewing Skills?
It’s important to remember that an interview is a conversation. Practicing your answers, conducting research, and familiarizing yourself with the company can help you make a lasting impression.
• Research the Company: Ensure that you have a strong understanding of the company’s history, values, and offerings. Consider visiting their website and social media to familiarize yourself with their voice. What is the company’s mission?
• Research the Interviewer: Researching the interviewer can provide insight about their background and offer valuable talking points. Prior to the video call, visit their LinkedIn page or the company website and learn more about them.
• Go Through Your Resume Out Loud: During the interview, you will have an opportunity to discuss your experience. Practice going through each item on your resume to ensure that you are comfortable with the content and can relate it to this position.
• Practice Discussing Your Skill Set and Relevant Project Work: Ensure that you plan out how you will introduce your skills. Prepare to elaborate on them and connect them to relevant work. Prior to the interview, select at least one project that connects to the position you are applying for and be prepared to explain it to interviewers.
• Prepare Questions for the Interviewer: Asking questions about the job and company are just as important as answering them yourself. This step shows that you are serious about the position and are invested in learning more. Ensure that you ask about the next steps in the hiring process.
Virtual interviews can be intimidating, but these tips can help you prepare and feel more at ease during the conversation. We look forward to connecting with you and seeing these tips in action!
To learn more about our available opportunities, visit our job seekers page or contact us today.
