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What should I know about virtual interviews?

Virtual interviews have become quite common and they are a way for employers to interview candidates using online tools. It is also called a video, remote or digital interview.

Virtual interviews can be held over different software platforms, depending on the organization they can include Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and GoToMeeting.

How is a virtual interview different from other interviews?

• Virtual interviews allow candidates and interviewers to virtually meet from different locations and to coordinate their schedules more easily.
• Virtual interviews are need you to set up and use equipment such as video interviewing software, webcams and headsets.
• Unlike phone interviews, virtual interviews allow the interviewer to see your appearance and body language.

What should I consider before starting a virtual interview?

Physical Environment

• Location. Set up your computer in a quiet, clean area without distractions.
• Lighting. Make sure the room you plan to use has enough light. You can use desk lamps to light your face.  Try not to have light coming from behind you.

Technology

• Video. Test the quality of your computer camera.
• Audio. It is a good idea to wear a headset with a microphone. Headset microphones will improve the quality of your voice.
• Internet Connection. Test the speed of your Internet connection. If you are in an area with a slower speed, you may want to ensure no one else in your home is streaming videos which will use up your internet bandwidth.
• Video Software. Test the software your interviewer will be using for your digital interview. Download the computer application in advance and become familiar with it.

Virtual First-Impression

• Outfit. Choose an outfit that will show you are ready for the interview just like in an office. Keep in mind you may need to stand up while on camera.
• Body language and posture. You should sit and engage with your screen and camera as if the person on the other end were in the room with you. 
• Interview script. Have all your interview documentation ready: resume, cover letter, portfolio, company research and any other notes you might need. You may want to have a digital copy of these ready on your computer so you can present them if required.

Other Tips

• Follow the same advice you would use in phone interviews and in-person interviews.
• Have something to drink near by just as you would an in person interview. 
• Ask someone you trust to do a practice virtual interview with you. This person can help you test your webcam and microphone, and give you feedback about lighting, sound, your appearance on camera and your interview performance.

For More Information

• The Ultimate Guide to Acing Video Interviews - This is a comprehensive guide to succeeding in video interviews. From Big Interview.
• Job Interviews - Settlement.Org has several articles on job interviews that you might find useful.