In the latest edition of our Unlocking Success series, we look at how you can ratchet up your chances of success in a virtual interview…
Even before COVID-19 made virtual interviews necessary, many companies were using them for initial candidate interviews. A virtual interview is an interview that takes place remotely rather than meeting face-to-face. Sometimes potential employers will use a phone call, but often technology like video conferencing is used. What steps can you take in advance to help you ace your virtual interview?
Set the Scene
A video interview is an opportunity to have a conversation with a potential employer in an environment where you feel comfortable. But you are responsible for setting the scene on your end to minimize distraction and keep the focus on you and your skills.
Start with yourself- wear what you would wear if you were traveling to their office for an interview. Doing so not only makes you appear professional and excited about the opportunity, but it will also make you feel more prepared and confident. If you are unsure about what to choose, business casual is always an appropriate choice.
Next, choose a space in your home that will provide a simple background to your video call, so you remain the focal point. A home office, a corner of your living room, anywhere not messy and business-like works. Check your lighting on the call too. Sitting with a window in front of you is the best way to make sure your interviewer can see you clearly.
Lastly, turn off the TV, silence your cell phone, and close the window to muffle any honking horns or blaring sirens. If you live in a shared household, let people know you have an interview. Do what you can to eliminate potential distractions and interruptions so you can concentrate on your interview.
Testing, Testing 1-2-3
As soon as you agree to a virtual interview, test your technology to ensure you’re set up for success.
A virtual interview requires tools like a camera and microphone on your computer, a software program (such as Google Hangouts or Zoom), and a reliable internet connection. At least a day before your virtual interview, check all your technology to make sure it works. Download any necessary software and make sure your internet connection can stream video. You can even practice calling a friend to make sure the video and microphone are working well. About 10 or 15 minutes before your interview, sign into the video or phone meeting and double-check your video and microphone.
Research and Prepare
You will want to avoid shuffling papers or clicking around on the internet during the call. Eye contact and focus on the interviewer’s questions are especially important in a virtual interview. Print out a copy of your resume with key points highlighted and place a few answers to commonly asked questions on post-it notes by your camera. Research the company online before the interview so you can come up with questions of your own too.
Unless the hiring manager shares interview questions in advance, you won’t know precisely what they will be asking. There are some common interview questions you can prepare for in advance. LinkedIn has an excellent interview prep resource here. They have a list of commonly asked questions on the left, and you can see video answers to the questions. You can even practice video interviewing and get AI-powered feedback on your answers. You can find out if you are speaking too quickly or using a lot of filler words.
Follow Up
After your interview, follow-up just as you would for an in-person meeting. It’s a good practice to send a thank-you e-mail within 24 hours, thank the interviewer for their time, and let them know you’re available if they have any additional questions. You can also reach out to the HR representative or hiring manager to get a list of your interviewer’s emails to thank them as well. Follow the above tactics, and you are going to ace that virtual interview.
Finally
If you are looking for your next role or to employ new talent into your Public Sector organisation, we can help.
For more information on how we can help you become or recruit the high-performing individuals you need, get in touch with us on 0870 042 1430 or email us here.
Marta Ortigas is a Director at Malikshaw Interim & Executive, a leading interim management and executive search firm exclusively focused on helping organisations achieve transformational change through delivering high performance, diverse, impactful talent teams.
Transforming our client’s performance through exceptional talent.
+44 7715 905810
marta.ortigas@malikshaw.com
www.malikshaw.com
