Virtual Interview Tips

Sep 16

As hiring becomes global and more employees work remotely, video interviews have become commonplace. For some positions, the entire process may be handled virtually.

The following information provides essential tips that you should know when interviewing with a prospective employer.

The key to a successful video interview is to practice beforehand, so that you avoid technical problems and feel confident with the process.
A video interview carries as much weight as an interview conducted in-person, so you will want to make sure that you're well prepared to interview remotely.

What to Expect

The video platform will vary depending on the company, but a recent survey reports that employers typically use; Zoom: 43%, Skype: 12%, Google Meet/Hangouts: 19%, Microsoft Teams: 7%
Surveyed companies reported that most interviews lasted under an hour; Under 30 mins: 36%, 30 mins to 1 hour: 48%, Over 1 hour: 16%
If you have multiple interviews in a single day, be sure to give yourself a time buffer in between so you have time to get set for the next interview.

Advance Planning

Take the time to prepare and practice for your interview in advance.
Do a trial run a day or two before the interview.
Verify you have the correct video platform installed and correct passwords.
Check your webcam and any headset or microphone as if you were going to do the actual interview.
Your camera should be at eye level, which may require you to raise your laptop up (try a stack of books or a box). A poorly placed camera can result in unflattering double chins or weird shadows.
Check to make sure your sound equipment works properly.

Check Your Background

During your test run, look at the background that shows up in the video. Does it look cluttered or distracting?
A plain wall is ideal, or an office-like setting. You may be able to choose an online background to use, depending on the video platform you're using.
Pay attention to the lighting so you don’t have light sources behind you since that will leave your face in the shadows.
Make sure that you are in a quiet space with no barking dogs, children, music, or other sounds.

What to Wear

A recent survey reports that most employers prefer that job candidates wear business casual.
The camera angle should show you from the waist up because your face is the real focal point.
If there is any possibility you will need to stand up, make sure your pants or skirt is professional.

Additional Tips

Turn off your phone.
Make eye contact by looking at the camera instead of at yourself in the screen.
Use good posture like you would at an in-person interview.

It’s important to consider a video interview (or phone interview) just as important as an in-person meeting. The value, for yourself as well as for the hiring manager, is equivalent. See In-Person Interview Tips for more information.