How To Make A Good Impression In A Virtual Interview

05.06.24 12:44 PM - By Adeola

Making a good impression in a virtual interview is very important because remote work and virtual interviews are here to stay. Following the pandemic, there has been a 50% increase in video calls. Some global companies work fully remotely. In addition, we have employees who are expected to work from home at least once a week, and some are expected to work remotely for three days. These employees save approximately $6,000 annually through remote work, making a return to traditional in-person work settings a significant proposition.

Making a good impression in a virtual interview requires a combination of technical preparation, professional presentation, and effective communication. Here are some detailed steps to help you succeed:

1. Technical Preparation

Check Your Equipment: Ensure your computer, camera, microphone, and internet connection are all working properly. Test them before the interview to avoid technical glitches.

Software Familiarity: Make sure you are comfortable with the video conferencing software being used (e.g., Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Skype, Google meet). Practice using it to familiarize yourself with its features.

Backup Plan: Have a backup plan in case of technical or network issues. This could be a an alternative device or network ready to use.

2. Professional Environment

Quiet and Tidy Space: Choose a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted. Ensure the background is tidy and free from distractions and noise.

Lighting: Make sure your face is well-lit. Natural light is best, but a lamp behind your camera can also work well.

Camera Position: Position your camera at eye level to maintain good eye contact. This helps create a more natural and engaging interaction.

3. Personal Presentation

Dress Professionally: Dress as you would for an in-person interview. This shows respect for the interview process and helps put you in a professional mindset.

Body Language: Sit up straight, smile, and use positive body language. Though, it’s a virtual interview, your body language is still visible and impactful.

Eye Contact: Look at the camera when speaking, not at the screen. This simulates eye contact with the interviewer.

4. Communication Skills

Be Clear and Concise: Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Virtual interviews can sometimes have slight audio delays, so ensure your answers are well-articulated and to the point.

Listen Actively: Make sure to listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions and comments. Nod and provide verbal acknowledgments to show you are engaged.

Pause and Think: It’s okay to take a moment to think before answering a question. This shows you are considering your response carefully.

5. Preparation and Practice

Research: Do thorough research on the company, its culture, and the role you’re applying for. Be prepared to discuss how your skills and experiences align with the job requirements, what you know about the company and why are you interested in working with them,

Prepare Answers: Prepare answers to common interview questions and practice them. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions.

Have Questions Ready: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This demonstrates your interest in the role and the company.

6. Follow-Up

Thank You Email: Send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the position. Though this is optional, but you can. Just 1 follow up email is enough.

Additional Tips

Minimize Distractions: Turn off notifications on your computer and phone to prevent interruptions. You can also put your phone in silence.

Test Your Appearance: Check how you look on camera before the interview to ensure you present your best self.

Stay Calm: If technical issues arise, stay calm and handle them with composure. Communicate promptly with the interviewer if needed.

Conclusion

By preparing thoroughly and presenting yourself professionally, you can make a strong impression in a virtual interview and increase your chances of success.

Are you looking to break into this lucrative field or advance your existing tech careers?

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