Tips on How to Prepare for a Virtual Interview

Due to the ongoing pandemic most of us continue to stay indoors and seek work remotely.

Since many companies still need to make hiring decisions during this time, phone and video interviews are becoming a widespread solution.

Keeping this in mind, we hosted a workshop on August 12, 2020 where Yvonne Robinson-Jackson, career coach and Senior Director of Delivery (Recruiting, Sales and Proposals) at Mindwire Systems Ltd, spoke to our newcomer clients about how to be successful during a virtual job interview.

“Thank you for this great session! It was really an eye-opener about how to conduct yourself during a phone and video interview,” said Nausheen Kamal who is seeking opportunities in administration.

Here are some highlights from Yvonne’s presentation:

1. Test Your Technology

Check your internet connectivity, and confirm that your camera and microphone are working. Also, pay attention to the audio quality and lighting during the call – it’s best to have the light facing you instead of facing your back.

2. Minimize Distractions

Find a room with good lighting, preferably near a window. Whether you sit at your dining table or in your home office, tidy up your surroundings. Once settled, eliminate all distractions. Turn off your cell phone.

3. Pay Attention to Your Body Language

Since you can’t firmly shake a hiring manager’s hand or show enthusiasm via video, you have to monitor your body language.

To seem confident sit up straight, smile, and keep the camera at eye level. Maintain eye contact, keep your focus on the camera when talking, and not on the image of yourself or the hiring manager.

4. Dress Appropriately

You might be sitting on your couch, but you shouldn’t look like you are just relaxing at home casually. Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Professional clothing will show you are serious about the interview and the role.

5. Prepare in advance

Prepare the same way you would for an in-person interview by reading up on, and planning, how to answer commonly-asked interview questions. Research the company, review the job description and prepare relevant examples of your past work experience.

“Some really great tips! I will be using them everywhere now, not just during a job interview but also at virtual meetings and classrooms,” said Jayanthi Suraweera, an internationally trained professional.