While virtual interviews used to be the exception, it is safe to say that in 2020 they are not only the norm, but they are pretty much our only option. As if the traditional interview process wasn’t intimidating enough, we now have to find the ability to vouch for ourselves on a platform filled with interruptions, poor connection, and just overall confusion! There are certainly challenges associated with interviewing virtually, but we’ve put together a list of things that you could do to make sure that you feel your very best when walking (or loading) into that virtual meeting room.
- Envision challenges
Wouldn’t it be nice if we could all go through the virtual interview process with no issues? Hopefully, we get there soon, but the sad reality is that there are plenty of opportunities for mishaps to occur during your virtual interview experience. Now, this isn’t meant to scare you, but rather prepare you for adapting on the fly. Whether your interview doesn’t show up on time, your connection isn’t working, your laptop dies, or your crazy neighbor is lighting off fireworks during the interview; you need to have a plan and stay composed. Nothing is worse than when you’re in a super stressful situation that you’ve planned for and everything falls apart. This is why you need to envision those challenges from the get-go and plan on how you would handle them ahead of time. Hope for the best but plan for the worst!
- Dress the part
I know that we’re all used to staying in our pajamas all day and putting on pants only when it’s absolutely necessary, but I promise you, virtual interviews are a time when it’s absolutely necessary! Even a phone interview can quickly experience complications and move to virtual. Plus, there is no denying the fact that you simply perform better when you feel and look the part. Cutting corners during the interview process is bound to make you feel tense; even if it’s subconscious.
- Treat it like any other interview
For the majority of us, the virtual interview experience is new territory. It has its benefits and challenges, but at the end of the day, it’s the same as any other interview! A company wants to get to know you and see if you’re the right person for the job while you want to see if it’s the right place for you; simple as that. Any interview tips that applied to the in-person experience (handshaking aside) apply to the virtual experience as well. Be cognizant of the fact that nobody wants to be in this situation
Like most things in life, not everything about the virtual interview experience is bad. There’s no planning for traffic or a long commute, the bathroom is 10 steps away, there’ll be no small talk with the secretary, and you may even feel more relaxed in a familiar environment. In summary, treat the virtual interview experience the same way you would treat a normal interview while understanding the nuances and challenges associated with it and preparing accordingly!
