The era of lockdowns during the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic brought about more virtual job interviews than ever. Work had to continue, right? However, even with no lockdowns, recruiters still choose virtual job interviews because they make work a lot easier; save time and cost. Candidates also swear that the pressure to dress up is also reduced. After all, you can wear your beautiful blouse with pyjama trousers and no one will know (wink).
But the ultimate question is if you are not under the pressure of going through the intense traffic to make it to the interview on time, how can you showcase your personality in a virtual job interview? These 5 hacks will get you sorted;
1. Stable internet connection
The success of the virtual world mainly depends on internet connectivity. Those who work remotely know what this means. If you are preparing for a virtual job interview, do not look like you had no idea that your internet connectivity has to be stable. The stability of your connection will show you off as a focused and serious person.
I have had a couple of virtual interviews that went sideways because my connection was unstable. I can choose to blame it on my network, but it did cost me. Therefore, as you finalise your preparations make sure you have a stable connection. Test out your location and see which part of your office or home will serve you better. Investing in a stronger and faster internet bandwidth will be of great help as well, especially if you are looking for a remote position.
2. Organise your interview space
I am not saying it's time to hire out an entire office space but try to get creative with what you have. Declutter your background and be intentional about the art in your background, you do not want recruiters to be shocked by quotes only you can explain. It is also important that you get a private space, this removes all unnecessary distractions like your baby calling you in the background. Recruiters are also impressed when the candidate shows off a good background, they see an organised individual.
I advise that you keep your background real instead of dimming it or using computer graphics. Unless you’ve got something to hide.
3. Dress the part
Do not even think twice about it. It is all fun and games until you stand up suddenly forgetting that you are wearing boxer shorts with your tie and coat. These things happen. Reduce your chances of being embarrassed, dress well and be comfortable. Of course, you can leave the heels behind. Many candidates will turn up for the interview shabbily dressed since it's ‘online’. Do not fall victim. If you can be smart online then recruiters will be convinced that you can be dedicated to the job.
Read also: Can dressing the part help to get the job you want?
4. Keep it normal
There is nothing different between virtual job interviews and in-person interviews apart from the physical distance between the recruiters and you. Engage with your recruiters normally. It is easy for words to get lost while doing a video call, ask the interviewers for clarity. Do not assume you heard a question you did not. As you answer your interview questions, be calm and keep a moderate pace. It is also okay to take time with your answers. Do not be under pressure to give answers you are not thinking through. Refer to your interviewer’s answers as you respond. This will show you as an attentive individual.
5. Arrive 30 minutes earlier
This is the greatest hack of all time. Imagine the Interviewer getting online and boom! you are already there. This will score you some points for punctuality. Setting up earlier will help you test your internet connection, your speakers, and your webcam as well. Block out all noises and give a heads-up to people around you to give you space for the time you are having your interview. In these 30 minutes, you can go through your interview questions and responses, prepare all the information that was asked and then go for it. Recruiters can easily know if you are prepared for your interview or not. Do not be a victim.
Bonus: Take some notes with you. That is the beauty of virtual job interviews. You can have all the help you need. But do not get lost in these notes, just make simple summaries that will help you remember what to say.
If you have never had a virtual job interview, be prepared for one. The world is changing pretty fast. Companies are adopting more cost-saving and tech-advanced ways in their operations. The earlier we embrace these trends, the better.
Are you a recruiter thinking of adopting virtual job interviews, this article will be of great help.