Many companies were leaning more toward virtual interviews even before the onset of COVID-19. After the outbreak of the pandemic, virtual interviews became the only option for almost everyone, and even now, as the world slowly eases back into a new sense of “normal,” it seems that virtual interviews are here to stay for many industries.
Navigating virtual interviews and meetings is now yet another new skill for undergraduates and recent graduates to master as they apply for professional jobs in this increasingly digital and remote-based society.
What’s the difference?
Virtual or not, an interview is an interview, right? Well, yes and no. The concept is the same. Employers will be looking for candidates who can successfully steer the conversation to highlight their strengths, experiences, and abilities while showing a personality and lifestyle that aligns with the company’s core values. However, some of the techniques and tactics of a virtual interview are a bit different than traditional, in-person interviews.
It’s important to fully understand these differences so you can be prepared and feel confident as you switch on your camera and get ready to make a great first impression with someone who could be your future employer. The following tips will highlight the key differences of virtual interviews and teach you how best to adjust to them so you can still convey a sense of confidence, professionalism, and preparedness.
1. Get more comfortable looking into your camera
If the virtual interview is through a video-based platform (such as Zoom, WebEx, Google Meet, etc.) you must have your camera turned on. This is a basic courtesy that will allow the interviewer to see how you present yourself as well as observe your body language. This means that you should learn how to make “eye contact” through the camera to best demonstrate your focus on the interview as well as your professionalism.
Most people generally agree that making frequent and consistent eye contact during an in-person interview is a positive action that displays confidence and honesty. In a video-based virtual interview, candidates must stare into their webcams or laptop cameras to convey the appearance of traditional “eye contact.”
Although this may feel a bit strange and unnatural, this is the best way to replicate genuine eye contact in a remote setting. Getting used to doing this will give you an edge as a potential candidate, as it will immediately let the interviewer know you are comfortable in this setting and are well-adjusted to digital work and conferencing.
2. Make your greeting count
Another major difference in virtual interviews is how you greet the interviewer. Unlike an in-person interview, a firm handshake with a smile and polite greeting is not an option.
Instead, professional body language, “eye contact” toward the camera, and a simple introduction and greeting phrase is appropriate. Posture is a factor here, and sitting up straight will not only show the employer your confidence but also trick your brain into feeling more confident as well!
Remember that, just like you would want to be the person that initiates the handshake in an in-person interview, you should be the person to first greet the interviewer. Initiating the greeting in a virtual interview is another way to show the employer that you are ready for the interview to start, and you are confident in your abilities and interpersonal skills.
3. Set the stage
One of the most notable differences for virtual interviews is the fact that they happen within your own space instead of at the place of business. It is important to keep this in mind as you prepare not only yourself for the interview, but also your space.
Find a corner of your home that you’re comfortable in but will also look presentable in through the camera, and make sure there is nothing unprofessional or distracting visible. (Pro tip – a desk that faces a window will have the best natural lighting for video calls!) The wall does not have to be blank, but avoid having too many wordy posters or art photos that may distract from yourself or your professional image. You can always have a practice video chat with a friend so they can tell you how you and your background appear in the camera.
If you do not have a space that works for a professional setting, you can always use one of the artificial backgrounds offered by most video call platforms. Just make sure it is a neutral background that will not distract from the interview!
4. Test out the technology
By now, most people are accustomed to using at least one video call platform, but each platform operates a little differently and it can be a bit unnerving to have to interview on an unfamiliar one. To settle some of these nerves and avoid any technological mishaps, try a practice run with a friend or family member.
Unlike traditional interviews, where you can not always access the location before the event itself and may not be able to get comfortable in the setting right away, virtual interviews enable you to practice and adjust to the setting any time. Use this ability to get comfortable with the platform as soon as possible so operating it during the interview is a breeze!
Simply have someone you trust set up a mock meeting on the right platform, invite you to it as if it were the real interview, and maybe even practice some common interview questions while you’re at it.
Be willing to embrace mishaps
At the end of the day, no matter how prepared or confident you feel, technology can be unpredictable. Whether the power goes out, or your wifi goes down or even if the site itself crashes, the best thing you can do is be ready to be flexible.
If the problem persists and makes you more than a minute or two late, send a quick email to your interviewer to let them know of the situation. Most people are ready to be understanding of these instances and will either wait for the problem to be fixed or try to reschedule for a better time.
This will actually be a great indicator to your interviewer of your own resourcefulness, adaptability, and communication skills. Make the best of the situation and be prepared to continue the interview on a different platform or at a later date!
