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What is a virtual interview?

When a job interview leverages video technology to virtually conduct the hiring process, it is called a video interview or virtual interview.
It often takes the form of an in-person interview, where the hiring managers and candidate meet virtually via a video conferencing platform.
There are some special considerations and adjustments in virtual interviews due to limited access to reading body language and facial gestures as of regular interviews.
Let’s read the tips to crack a virtual interview at its best.

How to prepare for a virtual interview

● Test your tech

The virtual interview requires tools like a camera and microphone on your computer that are working well, a video conferencing platform, and a stable internet connection.
Be ready at least 10-15 minutes before the interview and double-check these tools to ensure things are going well. If your HR representative provides you with a platform that you haven’t used before, make sure you get the app installed beforehand and familiarize yourself with the basic functionalities, at least how to mute and unmute your microphone.
You could either call your friend or a family member to give a test run, test whether you can see and you can be seen, you can hear, and you can be heard.
Tech glitches are a black mark for you at the interview time, even though you are the right candidate.
Technical savvy is one of the traits employers are looking for in the right candidate.
So arrive early, test your audio, video, and internet, and ensure the camera is at the proper angle.

● Dress to impress

Dress formally as you would in an in-person interview. Hiring managers will feel that you are serious about the role and will also make you confident and prepared.
Get to know about the company culture and find out what to wear that suits.
Never wear religious, obscene slogans or political and T-shirts for an interview, ever. Also, avoid wearing bright colors or exceptional jewelry.
Remember, hiring managers must focus on you and not your outfits.
Ensure your outfit looks good in front of the camera; try it using the same virtual platform you are using for the virtual interview.

● Set the scene and minimize distractions

Now find a space in your home with few distractions. Ensure you find a tidy area with enough lighting and neat space with ample natural light. You must create a good impression with your physical shot. Your background should not distract the interviewer; even a blank wall will do the trick. If space is not well lit, use a light source behind your computer, not behind you.
Tidy up the surroundings because it’s hard to convince your interviewer that you are detail-oriented when a visible laundry is piling up in the corner.
Also, inform about your interview schedule to the people living with you so that they won’t turn up mid-way asking a question, and make sure your children and pets settle so they don’t make guest appearances in between.
Silence your phone, turn off the TV and close the windows to muffle neighborhood traffic.

● Sit down prepared

Don’t think that you can use a computer to answer because you are sitting in front of that. Instead, be prepared forehand and be ready to answer any questions without the help of the internet.
You must be prepared in advance to have a natural conversation without clicking around or reading answers from papers.
It is also best to prepare with the common interview questions, questions to ask the interviewer in return, etc. They are looking for someone knowledgeable and passionate to work. So it’s the right time to show them why that’s you.

● Practice, don’t memorize

If you are a novice to virtual meetings, then do practice and practice more. Try out a mock interview with your family member or your friends. Try answering their hard questions, and remember to record this interview to playback and see where all you need improvement. It gives a chance for you to learn from the mistakes and be prepared for the real meeting.
Keep answers clear and straightforward, don’t make it complicated and confusing by using long-winged wrong answers. When you are asked to write something, pay strict attention to grammar and ensure it is right before hitting send.

● Monitor your body language

Virtual meetings won’t find space for firm handshakes that we typically use to greet employers. So during video meetings, convey your confidence through your body language. Smile, sit straight, make eye contact, and nod your head to show you are intuitively listening. When you answer, make eye contact, and don’t look here and there, it causes a feeling that you are not interested or shows your low confidence level.

● Make a connection

Hiring managers might have spoken to several candidates in a day, so try to connect with them and make the conversation interesting. Share a personal story or a common interest so that the interviewer remembers you and makes you stand out from other candidates.
Though it is crucial to make a connection, it is good to prevent yourself from blending in with other candidates.

● Avoid virtual background

It is always better to show your real background if it is suitable than using a virtual background. It seems artificial and creates a sense of distraction. Show them the actual space you’re speaking from, but remember to clean up the area as mentioned earlier.

● Be yourself

Make sure you are true to yourself while answering. Instead of keeping in mind to be the person the interviewer is looking for, be yourself. If you are the right fit for the company’s culture, chances are more to get hired.

● Immediately follow up

It is a best practice to follow up after the interview. Within 24 hours, send a mail thanking everyone you met. This will help thank them for their valuable time and let them know that you will be available if they have any additional questions to cover up. You can also include any points you forgot to address.

A final note (literally)

Proper preparation is the key to acing a virtual interview. Also, read the tips mentioned above to help you nail your next virtual job interview.
Following all these will set you apart from other candidates. Have a good time ahead!