Tip to Ace your Virtual Interview

Virtual interviews were first conceived roughly 15 years ago and are currently sweeping the human resource sector. A vast majority of tech companies now utilize virtual interviews as a standard to screen their potential candidates. This is possible through the advent of video conferencing technology initially adopted by the likes of Montage and HireVue. The use of virtual interview in recruitment is now more popular, as firms seek ways to interview job applicants remotely. It is imperative we discuss tips on acing virtual interviews.

Forms of virtual interview

There are two main types, and these include:

Live video interviews: They are done using a video chat network like Zoom. They are related to face-to-face interviews since they occur in real-time.
Recorded video interviews: Companies would provide a link to a platform where you would record responses to pre-arranged inquiries. You would not be interacting with a recruiter; rather, your replies would be reviewed by the hiring staff at a later date.

Preparation for your virtual interview

Preparing for a virtual interview is critical, similar to how you would for an on-site interview. You have to first understand the interview format. Ask whether you will be undergoing a recorded or live interview. For both, you would have to provide succinct responses to any questions thrown at you. However, the recorded interview is usually timed, which makes it a little bit challenging. You may observe the clock ticking away. Therefore, it would be pertinent to check out common questions in order to provide succinct answers and not waste time.

It is critical to carry out your research on the organization, read the job description, and be prepared to defend your qualifications and highlight your experience. Prepare to discuss the reasons you chose to work for the organization, the way its mission resonates with your goals, and the qualities you would bring to the role. Be ready to answer some common questions and have your questions compiled too.

Stick to time

Keeping the recruiter(s) waiting is not a great idea. Most virtual interviews are timed since the recruiter(s) will be on schedule for other job applicants. It is ideal if you log into the link of the interview some fifteen minutes before the start time.

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Inspect the technology

Ensure that your internet connectivity is stable to handle a virtual call. Test your device and network speed prior to the beginning of the interview to prevent any potential technical issues. Close any other programs or applications on your system that may interfere with the video and cause it to lag. It is critical that you do not give the hiring manager any reason to doubt your technical knowledge.

Consider the background

Using a neutral background is essential. Why? The interview focus should be on you and not on what is going on at your back. It is also important that you are in a surrounding which is well lit.

Noise is another aspect of your background. Ensure that your surrounding is devoid of sounds from pets, noisy roommates, construction noise, or any other type of noise.

Exude professionalism

Dress professionally for the virtual interview. Ensure that your attire is clean and neatly pressed. Wearing stripes or complicated patterns, which produce strange optical allusions on a video camera, is not a great idea.

Ensure a professional appearance by using a great posture when on camera. Sit up on your seat and maintain eye contact. Whenever you speak, focus on your camera and not your recruiter. This will ensure a better sense of eye contact.

Another factor to consider when conducting a virtual interview is camera positioning. Rather than having your camera pointed up at your chin, place it at or just above eye level.

Other types of distractions should be avoided

You must devote 100% of your focus to the interview. While the interview goes on, avoid eating anything and do not talk to anyone else. It is also crucial that you do not take any other calls or use your phone unless it pertains to the interview.

Being on time is just as important in a virtual interview as it is for an on-site type. Before any scheduled interview, make sure all your equipment is tested.

Since almost every virtual interview is timed, make every response brief and straightforward. Ensure a professional demeanour in both your attire and conduct. Avoid distractions from noise, food, and phone.

Finally, when the interview begins, inquire about the recruiter’s phone number. This is because you may run into any technical difficulties. Even with preparation, things can go wrong, and you can call and request a rescheduling at another time or on another video-conferencing application. And when the interview concludes, do not forget to follow up.