Online interviews are becoming more common as employers and candidates adapt to the changing world of work. However, they also pose some unique challenges and pitfalls that can affect your chances of landing the job. Here are some tips on how to avoid common online interview mistakes and impress your potential employer.
Before the interview, make sure you have a reliable internet connection, a working camera and microphone, and a suitable software platform. Test your equipment and software with a friend or family member to ensure everything is functioning properly. You don't want to waste time and frustrate your interviewer with technical glitches or poor audio and video quality.
Your environment can make a big difference in how you present yourself and how you are perceived by the interviewer. Choose a quiet, well-lit, and tidy space that is free from distractions and interruptions. Avoid having any personal items, posters, or clutter in the background that might look unprofessional or inappropriate. If possible, use a neutral or plain background or a virtual background that is relevant to the job or industry.
Even though you are not meeting the interviewer in person, you still need to dress professionally and appropriately for the role and the company culture. Your appearance can convey your confidence, competence, and interest in the job. Avoid wearing anything too casual, flashy, or revealing. Choose solid colors that contrast well with your background and avoid patterns or accessories that might distract from your face.
One of the biggest challenges of online interviews is establishing rapport and connection with the interviewer. To do this, you need to maintain eye contact and body language that show your attentiveness, enthusiasm, and respect. Look at the camera, not the screen, when you are speaking or listening. This will make you appear more engaged and sincere. Smile, nod, and use gestures that are natural and appropriate. Avoid fidgeting, slouching, or looking away.
It is even more important on a virtual interview to maintain eye contact and show that you are engaged and listening. Use gestures that demonstrate that you are listening, such as nodding and smiling and sit up straight. Some people fall habit to looking at themselves on the screen rather than the camera - if you can, change your settings so you can only see the interviewer, and this way you will naturally maintain better eye contact.
Like any other interview, you need to prepare your answers and questions in advance. Research the company, the role, and the interviewer to tailor your responses and demonstrate your fit and value. Practice answering common and behavioral interview questions using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result). Have some questions ready to ask the interviewer that show your curiosity and interest in the job and the organization.
After the interview, don't forget to follow up with a thank you note to the interviewer. This is a polite and professional way to express your appreciation, reiterate your interest, and highlight your strengths. Send the note within 24 hours of the interview and keep it brief and personalized. Mention something specific that you discussed or learned during the interview and how it relates to your qualifications or goals. End with a call to action or a statement of enthusiasm for the next steps.
- Read about the company - Check the interviewers LinkedIn profile ahead. - Follow the company on social media - Check their website and familiarize yourself about their story, products etc.. - Make sure you have the right timezone and zoom, teams installed and checked.