Crushing Your Virtual Interview: How to Ace It From the Comfort of Home
Become a pro at virtual interviews like this guy!
Since COVID-19 reshaped the way we work, virtual interviews have become the new norm for landing a job. While the idea of interviewing in your home office—or even on your couch—might seem less formal (and yes, technically you could be wearing pajama bottoms), there are still key strategies to absolutely crush your virtual interview. Let’s dive into the essential tips that will have you owning that screen and making a lasting impression.
1. Download and Test the Program Ahead of Time
One of the worst things you can do is show up late because of technical difficulties. Make sure you’ve downloaded the correct video platform (whether it’s Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or another tool) well in advance. Test your equipment before the interview—check your camera, microphone, and internet connection to ensure everything runs smoothly. That way, when it’s time to log in, you’re fully prepared and ready to go.
Pro Tip: Always have a backup plan—whether it’s knowing how to dial in by phone if your video fails or having the interviewer’s contact details just in case.
2. Set Up a Quiet, Distraction-Free Environment
Your interview space says a lot about your professionalism. Make sure you’re in a quiet environment with minimal distractions. Turn off any background noise, like TV or music, and if possible, ask family members or roommates not to disturb you during your interview. You want the interviewer’s focus to be on you, not on a barking dog or someone walking behind you.
Pro Tip: If background noise is unavoidable, mute yourself when you’re not speaking to minimize distractions for the interviewer.
3. Make Sure Your Device Is Charged
It sounds basic, but ensure your device is fully charged or plugged in. The last thing you want is for your computer or phone to die in the middle of a critical question. If you’re using a laptop, make sure it’s plugged into an outlet. If you’re using your phone, ensure it’s at 100% and have a charger handy just in case the interview runs longer than expected.
4. Inform Family/Friends Not to Bother You
This might sound obvious, but it’s crucial to let everyone around you know you’re in an important meeting. Whether it’s a note on your door or a heads-up text, make it clear that you’re not to be interrupted during this time. A simple heads-up can prevent awkward situations where someone barges in or makes noise, breaking your focus and the interview’s flow.
5. Make Eye Contact with the Camera
It can feel unnatural at first, but in virtual interviews, you want to make eye contact with the camera, not your screen. This creates the illusion of direct eye contact and helps build a connection with the interviewer. Position your camera at eye level and look directly into it when speaking—this small adjustment will make you appear confident and engaged.
Pro Tip: If you’re using notes (more on that later), practice glancing quickly between your camera and your screen to maintain a natural flow of conversation.
6. Prop Your Phone Correctly for Full-Screen Effect
If you’re taking the interview on your phone, resist the urge to hold it or move around. Instead, prop your phone up against something sturdy and lay it horizontally to create a full-screen effect for the interviewer. This way, they can see you clearly, and you’ll avoid the distracting movement of holding the phone in your hand.
7. Use Notes to Your Advantage
Here’s an added bonus of virtual interviews: you can have notes up without it being too obvious! Feel free to keep a list of key points, accomplishments, or responses to common interview questions nearby. Just make sure to glance at them discreetly and not rely on them too heavily—you don’t want to look like you’re reading directly from a script.
Pro Tip: Jot down some questions to ask the interviewer so you don’t forget, but keep your notes brief and to the point for quick reference.
In Summary: Preparation Is Key
Virtual interviews may feel more relaxed, but the preparation and professionalism you bring to them should be the same as in-person interviews. By being prepared with the right software, setting up a quiet space, making sure your device is charged, and using little hacks like eye contact and notes, you’ll be one step closer to landing your dream job.
Good luck—and remember, you’ve got this!
