What are the most important things to avoid in a virtual interview?

1 Poor audio and video quality

Nothing can ruin a virtual interview faster than poor audio and video quality. You don't want to sound like a robot, have a blurry image, or experience lagging or freezing. These issues can distract the interviewer, make you look unprofessional, and prevent you from communicating effectively. To avoid them, make sure you have a reliable internet connection, a good microphone and camera, and a quiet and well-lit environment. Test your equipment and software before the interview and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.

2 Lack of preparation

Just because you are not meeting the interviewer in person, it doesn't mean you can skip the preparation. You still need to research the company, the role, and the interviewer, and prepare your answers to common and specific questions. You also need to dress appropriately, have your resume and portfolio ready, and practice your body language and eye contact. A virtual interview is still a formal and professional interaction, so you need to show that you are serious and interested in the opportunity.

3 Distractions and interruptions

Another thing to avoid in a virtual interview is any distraction or interruption that can break your concentration and flow. This could be anything from your phone ringing, your email notifications popping up, your pets or kids making noise, or someone knocking on your door. To prevent these, turn off or mute any devices or apps that are not related to the interview, inform your household or roommates that you are not available, and lock or close your door. If something unexpected happens, apologize, explain the situation, and resume the interview as soon as possible.

4 Technical jargon and acronyms

When you are interviewing for a virtual team, you might be tempted to use technical jargon and acronyms that are specific to your field or industry. However, this can backfire if the interviewer is not familiar with them or if they have a different meaning in another context. To avoid confusion and misunderstanding, use simple and clear language, explain any terms or abbreviations that you use, and give examples or scenarios to illustrate your points. Remember that your goal is to showcase your skills and knowledge, not to confuse or impress the interviewer.

5 Negative attitude and comments

One of the worst things to avoid in a virtual interview is having a negative attitude and making negative comments. This can include complaining about your previous or current employer, colleagues, or projects, expressing doubts or reservations about the role or the company, or being rude or arrogant. These behaviors can signal that you are not a good fit for the virtual team, that you have poor communication and collaboration skills, and that you lack enthusiasm and motivation. Instead, focus on the positive aspects of your experience, your achievements, and your goals, and be polite and respectful to the interviewer and the company.

6 Lack of follow-up

The last thing to avoid in a virtual interview is forgetting to follow up with the interviewer and thank them for their time and consideration. A follow-up email or message can make a difference in showing your interest and appreciation, reinforcing your strengths and fit, and addressing any concerns or questions that might have arisen. It can also keep you in the loop and remind the interviewer of your candidacy. Make sure to send your follow-up within 24 hours of the interview, personalize it, and keep it brief and professional.