Online Interview Tips

A part of adjusting to the “new normal” includes a new standard for job interviews through online video chats such as Zoom or Skype. Although these methods are an effective way for an employer to get to know a potential job candidate from a safe social distance, they do bring their own unique set of challenges with them that are not exactly the same as a traditional job interview.

Below we have listed some tips to help you succeed in online interviews:

Mute yourself when you are not speaking

All popular video calling platforms include a mute feature to help prevent unwanted interruptions during your call. The mute button silences your end of the call when activated, preventing loud sounds in your household such as dogs barking or children playing from interrupting the interviewer. Muting yourself as they speak makes the interview feel more professional, and helps the interviewer focus on the questions they are asking.

Make ‘eye contact’ with the camera

Eye contact is important to maintain during any interview, and online interviews are no exception; however, it is important to remember that looking at the interviewer on screen gives the illusion that you are looking down. Looking directly into the camera as you speak creates the illusion that you are looking at them rather than yourself or the screen, which comes across much more professionally in an interview.

Ensure your environment looks professional

Be aware of the fact that the interviewer will be able to see your surroundings during the interview. Make sure you are set up in an area that is organized, professional, and free of clutter as your surroundings will play a factor in the impression you leave on the person interviewing you. A neat and tidy interview area shows that you are organized and pay attention to detail, allowing for a better first impression right from the start.

Pick a room with good lighting

Just like an in-person interview, the interviewer will be evaluating your facial expressions and body language during an online interview. It is important to choose a room with good lighting so you can easily be seen. Set up for your interview in an area either facing a window for natural lighting or with access to lights in front of you to ensure you are well lit and looking professional. Avoid areas with lighting behind you, as this will cast a shadow over you and make you harder to see.

Minimize distractions

It is important that both you and the interviewer can focus on the conversation, so make sure you set up in an environment free from any distractions. This includes finding a quiet place to set up, muting notifications on all of your devices, and informing any family members who will be home during the interview to ensure the whole household is on the same page. Minimizing distractions will allow you to have clear thoughts and fully focus on the questions being asked, giving you the best chance at success during the interview.

Fully prepare your laptop/computer

Although video interviews can be conducted on phones or tablets, it is best to use a laptop or desktop computer for the interview. This provides a more stable and generally clearer image of you, lending to a better interview. Make sure your laptop is fully charged before the interview, as scrambling for a charger or having a dead battery will not reflect well on your organization skills. Double check that your computer is fully updated so it works properly and doesn’t prompt you to update in the middle of the call, and close out all other windows and tabs before the interview starts. It is also important to have a strong and stable internet connection so the call runs smoothly.

Look professional

An online interview should be treated just like an in person one. Wear professional attire, make sure your hair is done, and be aware of your body language. The interviewer will take note of all of these things as they all contribute to your first impression on the company. Sit up straight, avoid tapping or fidgeting, and smile and nod along with the interviewer to show you are engaged and interested in working for the company they are representing.

Practice beforehand

Zoom and Skype are the two most popular platforms for online video interviews. If you aren’t used to using them, try them out with family or friends before the interview so you know what you are doing. This will help you feel more confident and professional during the interview, and allow you to focus on the questions being asked