Attending a virtual interview can be a different experience than an in-person interview, but it’s important to approach it with the same level of professionalism and preparation. Here are some dos and don’ts for attending a virtual interview:
Dos:
- Test your technology
Make sure your internet connection, camera, and microphone are working properly before the interview. Test them with a friend or family member to ensure everything is working as it should. - Dress professionally
Dress as you would for an in-person interview. This will help you feel more confident and professional. - Environment
Choose a quiet, well-lit space for the interview. Make sure there is no background noise or distractions. Let anyone else in the vicinity know that you are not to be disturbed. Ensure your phone is on “do not disturb” and turn off notifications on your laptop. - Be prepared
Research the company and the job beforehand. Prepare answers to common interview questions and have a copy of your resume and any other relevant documents on hand. - Eye Contact
Look directly at the camera when speaking, rather than at the screen. This will help you make eye contact with the interviewer.
Don’ts:
- Don’t be late
Treat a virtual interview as you would an in-person interview. Be on time and ready to go. - Don’t be too casual
It’s easy to get comfortable and a little too casual while interviewing from the comfort of your home. However, you must treat the interview like you would in a physical workplace by maintaining a professional tone and stance. So, that means avoiding the use of slang, keeping a good posture, and focusing on your interviewers - Don’t panic if your technology fails
Even after thorough checks, technology may still fail you (or your interviewer!). Remain calm if you lose your connection or struggle to hear a question. Let your interviewer know you are experiencing problems – perhaps emailing from your mobile or using the ‘chat’ function depending on the exact issue. If you cannot get back online, follow up
as swiftly as possible with a professional email underlining your interest in the role and politely requesting a rescheduled interview.
