Over the course of the pandemic, there has been a major shift in today’s business practices. One of the many ways it has changed is the onslaught of virtual interviews as an alternative to face-to-face meetings.
Many hiring managers also find this method more convenient as it lessens the hassle of traveling for both parties.
While preparing for a traditional interview can be stressful, getting ready for a remote one can be just as nerve-wracking. There are many things to work out and arrange before the meeting, so having a mental list to go through will help you not forget anything. Before your virtual interview, here are some of the things you should definitely do:
As remote interviews heavily rely on gadgets and the internet, you should always ensure that yours are functioning properly. Many hiring managers require seeing you so test your camera and microphone beforehand to see if they are working. You should also check your wi-fi to see if it is strong enough to smoothly conduct the call.
One way you can prepare is by having a mock virtual interview where you can check all your bases. This is a great way to gauge whether or not your connection is laggy and if your tech is functioning properly while helping you mentally prepare for the real meeting.
You can try working with a coach a few days– or even hours– before so you will be completely ready for the real thing.
One of the benefits of a physical meeting is that you will be able to meet with prospective employers in a professional environment. Remote interviews take that away as you will most likely be in the comfort of your own home.
While it is possible to blur your surroundings or to use a virtual background, you should still work on arranging your space to make it more appropriate. Having a dedicated work area at home will help you seem more professional and well-prepared to join a company.
The area should look clean while still being comfortable enough for you to do your tasks properly. You can have a standing desk converter that can help you adjust and customize the level of your camera. This way, you won't have to be going through questions at odd angles.
That being said, you should declutter your space thoroughly– not just the area directly behind you. Having a clean and functional workspace will help you create a more professional environment during your interview.
Many people might believe that just because their meeting will be conducted virtual, there is no need to dress for the job. For an interview, you should still show your best side to prospective employers to convey that you are a serious candidate. What you should wear may vary on the company or job you are applying for.
Your interview attire for a start-up can be smart casual, consisting of a button-down or blouse with denim jeans. A corporation may require something more formal like a suit while a creative agency might want something a bit more fashion-forward.
Research first on the company you are applying for, what kind of work they do, and the culture they foster with their employees before deciding what to wear.
Virtual interviews can be daunting– especially if you don’t prepare for them properly. Be sure to take the time to ready yourself before the meeting to increase your chances of getting hired and making a good impression on the hiring manager.
