Virtual interviews
Before your virtual interview, it is important to identify the platform it will take place on and download the necessary software. Doing so is free and intuitive, and most applications are compatible with mobile devices, laptops, and tablets.
Here are some of the more commonly used virtual meeting applications:
- Google Chat
- Goto Meeting
- Microsoft Teams
- Skype
- Webex
- Zoom
To prepare for a virtual interview, follow these best practices:
- Make sure you have a strong internet connection. If additional devices are connected to the Wi-Fi network, they should be turned off for the interview to improve bandwidth.
- Find a quiet room or location where you can focus and limit distractions, like a local library, coworking space, or coffee shop with secluded areas. If you are planning to interview at home, tell your roommates or family members that you have an interview, and address any needs your pets may have in advance.
- Understand your surroundings and the background of your video. A blank wall tends to provide the best backdrop for at-home interviews. Reduce visual distractions as much as possible, and be sure to test your background ahead of time. Organize your desk and interview area to create a professional setting.
- Position the camera at eye level and test the video lighting in advance to adjust as needed.
- Turn off all notifications on your devices, and close any unnecessary applications or browsers.
- Dress professionally. A virtual interview is usually one of the first impressions between a candidate and a company, and dressing professionally boosts confidence, which translates through the screen. You should dress the same or similarly for a virtual interview as you would for an in-person interview.
- Don’t forget about the chat feature—if there are technical difficulties or you cannot hear the interviewer, you can let them know by using it.