Have you been shortlisted for an interview? Is the interview going to be held online? That's great news!
Online or virtual interviews are now becoming the norm due to technological development, cost-effectiveness and as a critical safety precaution measure, post the pandemic.
As a candidate facing the camera for a pre-recorded video or a virtual interview, you need to be aware of the pros and cons of this interview technique.
A definite plus is the time saved on commute, avoidance of traffic jams and referring to your notes unnoticed, during the interview. The downsides including the unexpected technical snags are - inability to physically visit the workspace to get a feel of the culture, set-up and personally meeting potential colleagues.
It’s true, you now have access to more opportunities due to a surge in remote openings, however be prepared to deal with an intense level of competition with the rise in potential applicants.
However, the similarity between a face-to-face and virtual interview is that you need to groom yourself purposefully to tackle the challenge and secure the job!
Consider these seven tips to achieve exactly that:
#Tip1: Select your location
One of the keys to the success of a digital interview is your seating space. Choose a quiet place with minimum disturbances. Your desk should be clutter-free, well-lit (preferably natural light). Use a simple virtual backdrop in case you have a messy background.
Provide a clear view of your face to the interviewer. Create an ambience that projects you as someone whose neat, organized and hence serious about the position.
#Tip2: Do a technology test-run
Familiarize yourself with the platform preferred by the prospective employer (Zoom, Google meet, Microsoft Teams etc.). Conduct trials with a friend/family member to practice the interface features.
Test your equipment including audio, video, internet speed connection. Ensure the microphone, speakers are working and use a professional screen name for the interviewer to recognize.
#Tip3: Practice. Practice. Practice
The tech-test is a part of your rehearsal, the other part is the actual interview rehearsal. Like you would prepare for a personal interview, compile common interview questions, jot down your responses and do mock interviews on the online platform.
Speak clearly (neither too fast nor too slow), speaking at a hurried pace shows nervousness. Be mindful if the interviewer asks you something in between, computers have a tendency of audio lag. Communicating distinctly, taking time to pause demonstrates confidence, while listening carefully to the interviewer builds rapport.
#Tip4: Organize your documents
Keep your resume handy to refer during the interview. Instead of multiple pages of narratives, make bulleted points to cover across the specified time. Treat these as reminders, don’t read out from them.
#Tip5: Dress professionally
Clean, neat formal clothes are considered professional in most work settings, choose the attire wisely to generate a compelling impression. Yes! This aspect is as important in a digital space as in a physical one.
#Tip6: Adopt appropriate body language
Similar to personal interviews, appropriate body language demonstrates poise and composure, even in a virtual setting. Adopt an open posture and sit upright throughout the interview.
Maintaining eye-contact by looking into the camera instead of at the interviewer or yourself is difficult but will you’ll learn to do it with repeated attempts. Employing smooth hand gestures, nodding to display understanding, smiling occasionally will help strike a connection with the interviewer.
#Tip7: Be genuine & stay calm
It’s normal to be tensed, especially at the beginning of the interview. Hence, test your electronic devices, calm your nerves by taking deep breaths and log in before the scheduled time.
Express sincerely and engage genuinely with your potential employer to keep the conversation lively. This will also offer a window of opportunity to clarify doubts regarding the role/company with the interviewer.
An interview, whether online or in-person, requires the same amount of groundwork from your end. Understanding its nuances and customizing your preparation will determine the final outcome of this latest hiring method.
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