Interviews are nerve-wracking – no matter how many you’ve gone through, or how well you prepare. Knowing you’re about to sit in front of someone who has the sole responsibility of analyzing your every word and move is a direct invitation for social anxiety!
And while virtual interviews may alleviate some of those jitters, they can also be just plain awkward! When it comes to interviewing through the computer screen, there are a handful of added aspects to consider when preparing so they can run smoothly – and comfortably.
Check your tech. You don’t want to be awkwardly scrambling at the start of the interview just to figure out how to get your camera on, or to realize your internet connection is too weak to function well. With remote work being so common as well, your new employer will most likely want to see you can navigate this virtual workplace with ease.
Turn on your camera. There is a reason it wasn’t set up as a phone interview. It’s already impersonal enough when employers can’t meet face to face with their candidates, so they at least want to have as similar experience to that as they can through a virtual interview. Plus, think of how uncomfortable it is for the interviewer to be talking to a blank screen.
Set up your space. The view from the other side should be neat and clutter free. Be mindful of anything inappropriate that could be in view! If you feel uncomfortable inviting someone into your personal space virtually, you can find a blank wall in your home to set up near. And if that’s not possible, most video conference applications have the option to add a virtual background or blur effect.
Project confidence. Don’t let the fact that you feel awkward talking to your computer take over your mannerisms. Much like an in-person interview, body language and voice projection make an impact! Since you can’t quite wow someone virtually with your strong hand-shake or magnetic presence, you want to make sure you project that confidence in your posture, expressions, volume, and tone.
Virtual interviews have proven to be efficient and convenient for everyone involved. So whether you love them or hate them, they’re here to stay. Along with your standard interview preparations, it would be wise to keep these tips in mind as well. Much like anything else, as our world changes, we either evolve or get left behind.
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