Test Your Technology Beforehand

A virtual interview requires tools like a camera and microphone on your computer, a software program (such as Google Hangouts or Zoom) and a reliable internet connection. At least a day before your virtual interview, check all of your technology to ensure it works effectively and can be used to communicate effectively.

In the 10 to 15 minutes before your interview, check your internet connection and sign in to the video or phone meeting the HR representative or hiring manager has provided. Turn on the sound and video to ensure everything is in working order in time for your conversation.  Close any unnecessary web browser tabs and applications.

Wear Professional Attire

In a virtual interview, you should dress the same as you would in a face-to-face interview. Doing so not only makes you appear professional and excited about the opportunity, but it will also make you feel more prepared and confident.

When an interview takes place from a remote location like your home, you should expect it to be just as formal as one that takes place in an office. A great outfit example for men and women is a button-down shirt and blazer with slacks.

Also, avoid any overpowering patterns or flashy accessories so as not to divert the employer’s attention from your expertise. You should be the focus of the interview, not your wardrobe.

Create A Set

If possible, sit in front of a blank background, so that you remain the focal point. If your house is void of empty walls, set up in whichever area looks the most businesslike. 

Always make sure the space is clean before embarking on a video call; the messier the background, the harder it is to convince a hiring manager of how detail-oriented and organized you are as an employee.

Lastly, check your lighting. Sitting near a window works best, as the best way not to appear washed out is to keep the light in front of you.

Prepare In Advance

As with any interview, you’ll get the best results if you time to prepare in advance. You should prepare so that you can have a natural conversation without searching around or reading directly from a script, which can seem rehearsed and unnatural.

Prepare the same way you would for an in-person interview by planning for commonly-asked interview questions, researching the company, reviewing the job description and preparing relevant examples of your achievements and experience.  Also have a pen, notepad and copy of your resume on your desk.

Limit Distractions

The best place to take an interview in your home is a quiet location with few distractions. Turn off the TV, silence your cell phone, and close the window to muffle any honking horns or blaring sirens. While you can’t plan for every distraction—particularly if you have children—the more prepared you can be, the better.

Tell people you are sharing space with about the area you’ll be using for your interview, the time of your interview, and that you and your quiet space will be off-limits during that time. Respectfully explain that during this time, it is best that the house stays quiet with limited distractions. If possible, you might also place pets in a designated room during critical working hours.

Use Professional Body Language

Sit up straight and ensure your camera is placed such that your face is in the middle of your screen (not too much blank space above or below your head). Research shows that employers are more likely to remember what you said if you maintain eye contact, so be sure to keep your eyes focused on the camera—not the screen image of the hiring manager—as you converse.

Pro Tip: Write your talking points on Post-it notes. You can then place those notes on your computer screen to avoid shuffling papers or clicking around during the call. It will help you appear to maintain eye contact.

Follow Up

After your interview, plan to send a well-timed follow-up. It’s good practice to send a follow-up email within 24 hours of an interview, thanking the interviewer for their time and letting them know you’re available if they have any additional questions. Reach out to the HR representative or hiring manager you’ve been speaking with prior to get a list of your interviewers’ emails.