You finally booked an interview for the job of your dream! But instead of meeting the recruiter in person, they let you know that the interview will be virtual.
Virtual interviews are becoming more and more common, especially after the Covid-19 crisis, which required the majority of companies to conduct interviews behind a screen. But this recent transformation also continued after the crisis. The virtual interview were already a recruitment tool for many companies, and as this recruitment tool is growing, it's not surprising that some businesses continue to use it, at least during a first interview.
Here are 8 tips to be well prepared for a virtual interview:
1. Know your software and its basic functionalities well.
If you are not particularly familiar with the tool that will be used for the interview, it is important to take some time one or two days before the interview to fully familiarize yourself with the important features. This will avoid surprises such as malfunctioning or a need for updates that could delay the interview and create additional stress.
The day before the interview, ask a loved one to test with you remotely to make sure that the audio and video are working properly and that everything is configured for optimal sound and image quality.
2. Choose a comfortable but professional outfit.
Even if you don't have to leave the house for the interview, it's important to still look after your appearance. Of course, every industry and company has its own dress code, but if you planned to show up in person wearing a suit, a T-shirt and jeans certainly won't do the trick, even via video. In addition, wearing clothes that you would usually wear in an interview will help you immerse yourself in the situation and be more focused during the interview.
3. Be sure to inquire about the company
As with any interview, it is important to take the time to study the company you are interviewing for. You can spend a few minutes on their websites and various social networks in order to better know their missions and current projects, and to briefly immerse yourself in the corporate culture. You can also go to the recruiter's LinkedIn profile, this could also give you ideas for questions to ask at the end of the interview, in particular about their background and experience within the company.
4. Get ready for tough questions
Virtual or in person, this is an important step in order to feel comfortable dealing with difficult questions.
Tip: always check to see if the company has a Glassdoor page. The site offers a section that allows users to give their opinions on interviews with the possibility of putting the questions they even had to answer as well as their interview experience. If questions come up regularly, chances are you'll be asked them too.
5. Print your resume and job description
The little bonus of the virtual interview is that it allows you, just like during a phone interview, to have a few notes and discreet documents around you. You shouldn't have your eyes on your notes all the time during the interview, but you can take a look at it from time to time as needed. This can help keep your thoughts and words flowing and help you stay confident.
6. Choose a quiet room without distractions and prepare your environment
The most optimal is a closed, quiet room with good natural light, and where there is no risk of you being disturbed. In terms of interview time, if you have the option, ask the recruiter how much time you should block for the interview and add 15 minutes to make sure you have enough time.
7. Stay aware of your body language
Even behind a screen, body language is something that shouldn't be overlooked. Be careful not to keep your arms crossed and to maintain an open posture. Stand up straight and lean forward a bit, which shows that you are attentive to your interlocutor.
For the eyes, it is better to look directly at the camera rather than at the screen itself.
8. Remember to relax and have a good time
Regardless of the format, an interview is still a stressful step for many individuals. But it's important to remember that if you got the interview, it's because your experience and personality (if you had a phone interview beforehand) captured the recruiter's attention. An interview is a conversation, and also a way for you to learn more about the company and the position, and to really feel if this is a good fit, not only for the company, but also for you.
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