COVID-19 has dramatically changed the world of work. Though many workplaces have reopened, much of the hiring process remains online for a lot of companies. This means that you may be facing a virtual interview. All the same best practices for interviews apply, but there are a few additional considerations for this type of interview. Here are some tips to help you prepare.
1. Choose Your Location
You’ll need to do your interview in a quiet spot with no distractions. If you have a home office, that may be the easiest choice. Many people are doing interviews from their bedroom, kitchen, den, or even living room. If others are home during your virtual interview, choose a room with a door that locks.
Also, consider the background. You don’t want to look like you have a plant or a painting growing out of your head. Set up against a blank wall, or at least make sure that the décor frames your face rather than appearing attached to it.
2. Check Your Equipment
Virtual interviews require a strong internet connection and a laptop or other connected device with a camera, microphone, and speakers. Do a test run before the day of your interview to make sure all of your equipment works, and you know how to operate it. Also, double-check where to log in for the interview.
3. Dress for Success
You should dress as you would for an in-person interview, with a few important considerations. Avoid bright or dark colors, which can look blurry on camera, and busy patterns, becoming dizzying. Make sure your outfit contrasts with both the background and skin tone to avoid looking like a floating head. Skip the dangling jewelry, which can catch the light for a disco ball effect. Also, be sure to dress comfortably, as any discomfort you feel will be magnified on camera.
4. Prepare the Space
Right before your interview, take a good look around the space you’ve created. Do you have a notebook and pen within reach? What about a glass of water? Is there any clutter within the camera range? What about the lighting? You want to light your face rather than your back, so position your workstation where the light streams onto your face.
Virtual interviews can add a whole new dimension to job-hunting stress. By following these simple tips, you can be sure that you’re putting your best foot forward even when you can’t meet your interviewer in person.
Ready for a New Position?
Are you looking for work? Custom Staffing can help! Take a look at our available positions, and then apply today.
