How to Ace a Digital Interview
With the unprecedented times we are living in, everyone’s lives have been turned upside down. From how we do work, how we interact with family and friends to even how we interview for potential jobs, it’s all been transformed into a digital world.
Here’s a pro-tip for all the job candidates right now: A digital or video interview is still just that, an interview. You need the same skills and qualities to stand out to pass with flying colors, if not simply to an even higher level of excellence. Check out these tips on how to ace a digital interview:
1- Pick a proper place for the video interview.
You want good lighting so the interviewer can see your face. Make sure your background is not cluttered, but instead, it should be neat, tidy and professional. Double check that there is no music or ambient noise in your space. You also don’t want anything inappropriate in your background. Take down any inappropriate artwork or posters on the walls. Also, rid your camera screen of anything that could be controversial or questionable.
2- Test out your video equipment.
One of the worst things that can happen on a video call is for technology to fail you. While there’s certain things you cannot control, there are some things you can. Check your Wifi connection before the call to make sure it is connected. Also, make sure your camera and microphone are working properly. Check the volume. Check to see if there is an echo. Check to see if your camera is working and at the right angle.
3- Dress the part.
While you may be in the comfort of your own home, you do need to dress professionally. Think of it like this: Any part of you that is on the camera needs to be professional. If your bottom half isn’t on the camera and you want to wear gym shorts, then wear gym shorts. However, make sure you have a professional top, a clean face and tidy hair.
4- Prepare your talking points in advance.
The cool thing about a video call is that you can basically have a cheat sheet next to you of talking points that you might not otherwise be able to have in person. It is great to research the company and the interviewer you will be speaking with beforehand. Jot down a few notes in a journal and keep it next to you during the interview. This tool will allow you to bring up timely and relevant talking points.
5- Be sure you are on time.
Just because it’s a video call doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be on time. Be sure to join the call early if you can. A digital call is no excuse for tardiness.
6- Have a list of questions to ask the interviewer.
This is a basic requirement for every good interview, in-person or through video. Have a list of insightful questions to ask during the interview process. Make sure they are thoughtful and not questions that you could have easily found a quick Google search. The interviewer will notice.
7- Be sure to provide examples of your work.
Since you are already online for the interview, this step should be a no-brainer. Be sure to send the interviewer your resume and samples of your work. Whether it be visuals, writing samples, videos or recommendations, be sure to have digital materials to support why you are a good fit for the job.
8- Follow up with a digital thank you.
At the end of an interview, be sure to express your appreciation and follow-up with an email thank you as well. Again, this will show intention and that you truly want the job.