Enhancing Your Interview on a Video Conference
In response to the global pandemic, COVID-19, nearly all businesses have had to rely on technology and virtual communication in order to keep things running as normally as possible. As video conferencing becomes the new norm in conducting interviews, there are important things to keep in mind that will make your online interview just as good as an in-person one.
1. Be on Time
Just like you would an in-person interview, plan to join the video-conferencing session 10 to 15 minutes early. Being on time is the best way to show a potential employer that you are a professional who values the interviewers’ time.
Use this time before the interview to think about your answers to possible questions that might arise. What experiences do you have that will showcase you as the perfect candidate for the job? Take some deep breaths, so when the session does begin, you are calm and ready to go.
2. Ensure your Technology
Allowing yourself time to check that your technology is working before the interview is crucial. Running through a checklist of the necessary technologies will prevent any delay in the interview on your part.
Check to see: is your internet connection stable? Have you downloaded/installed the required meeting software? Are the audio and camera properly adjusted?
It would be beneficial to conduct a dry run meeting to ensure that everything is functioning properly. Taking the appropriate steps to prevent any glitches from occurring will ensure things run smoothly and may even score you some points for being technologically inclined.
3. Limit Distractions
The biggest challenges of a virtual interview are the many other distractions that can take your attention away from the session. Remove anything from the space that could become a distraction.
It may help to visualize that you are in a room with the interviewers sitting across the desk. The do’s and don’ts for an in-person interview still apply. Do not multitask! Place all your other devices in silent mode. Limit any sort of background noise or activity, whether it be from family members, pets, or colleagues. Not only can this distract you, but the people interviewing you may be unable to hear about your best qualities.
While it may be more convenient and comfortable to stay in your pajama pants, dress head to toe for the interview. In case the camera angle captures a full-body position, you want to appear as serious and professional as possible. You may even notice a psychological benefit of dressing completely!
4. Make Effective Use of the Camera
Self-presentation plays a big role in making a first impression. Set the camera at eye-level, capturing midsection up. Eye-contact during a virtual interview may be difficult to decipher. We suggest looking into the camera and not the video feed. Doing this mimics eye contact and increases engagement.
5. Be Aware of your Behavior and Mannerisms
Consider the different kinds of nonverbal cues you are giving off. How is your posture? Do your facial expressions show that you are engaged in what the other person is saying? Remember, you want to display a sense of energy and enthusiasm!
Navigate the rhythm of the conference early on to avoid interruptions and/or talking over each other. Wait for your interviewers to invite you to respond before trying to speak over them. Failure to do so may result in the audio reaching an uncomfortable level for both parties.
Using earbuds may help to avoid any feedback and/or echo. Testing this option during the dry run to see which option gives you the clearest audio is a good idea.
6. Be Prepared, Have a Plan & Pay Attention
Video conferencing requires a concentrated effort. Don’t lose your concentration or mojo if glitches happen — it’s a good test of your composure and resiliency. Show that you are able to work through it and make the best of situations that may not go your way. Have a plan B if the video-conference logistics are a bust.
As with any interview, the same criterion applies. There is a lot to manage, so make sure you cover everything and end with a clear understanding of follow up items and next steps. Finally, don’t forget to send a thank-you note.