4 Ways to Look and Feel Your Best for Virtual Interviews
While virtual interviews were gaining popularity prior to 2020, there’s no denying that COVID-19 has forever changed the ways people perform certain tasks. Recruiting and interviewing remotely and via virtual interviews has become one aspect of “the new normal” amid ongoing coronavirus concerns.
Businesses and job seekers increasingly adopt new tools, strategies and attitudes to make it all work. If you’re searching for a job, you might have a good feel for the remote job search landscape. However, if you’re preparing for your first-ever virtual interview, you might feel better going into it with some pointers to look and feel your best.
Here are four things you can do to gear up and feel great!
1. Test Your Technology and Upgrade If Possible
You don’t want to assume your laptop’s camera works perfectly. While it might offer a moving image of you, it’s important that it provides a clear representation of who you are and how you present yourself. If you don’t have a camera that fits the bill, find one you can afford as soon as possible. As soon as you agree to a virtual interview, set up your technology and interview setting to ensure you’re ready for success. Since you might feel nervous the day of your interview, do a quick run-through at least a few hours before your scheduled virtual interview to make sure your internet is working and that everything is in order, such as the lighting and audio.
2. Set Up Practice Sessions Before the Big Day
Mock interviews aren’t new for enthusiastic job seekers. You can either set up a mock virtual interview with a friend or family member or, if necessary, do your own one-sided virtual interview that you can record and watch later. During these practice sessions, make sure you dress the part and adopt a professional mindset. Prepare a set of questions to answer, including the following that most interviewers are likely to ask:
- Why are you leaving your current position?
- What are your professional strengths and weaknesses?
- What are your salary requirements?
- Why should we hire you for the job?
Use your practice sessions to come up with genuine and meaningful answers for yourself and your prospective employer.
3. Remove All Distractions from Your Interview Area
Find the most private area of your home to conduct your official virtual interview to avoid any distractions, visual or aural. For instance, if you’re concerned the neighbor’s dog will bark during your interview, move to another part of your home. Additionally, make sure you turn off the TV, silence your smartphone and close the windows before the interview begins.
4. Dress the Part to Ace Your Virtual Interview
Don’t underestimate how essential it is to dress as professionally for a virtual interview as you would for a traditional one. From your hairstyle to your shoes and everything in-between, it’s important to dress the part and look your best. Your best business suit, whether paired with a skirt or pants, is the ideal option. You might also piece together an outfit suited perfectly to your taste and style, starting with a classic bodysuit that inspires confidence in you. Pair your favorite bodysuit with a blazer or cardigan sweater, then add your favorite scarf and accessories to finish off the look that ensures you feel your best. Remember to dress for the job you want and not the job you have to win over your interviewer.
Virtual Interviews are a Breeze with Preparation
Even if you’ve never taken part in a virtual interview previously, you’ll feel confident and ready with a strong strategy that includes one or more of these tips. Ensuring that your technology and interview space are ready and free from potential issues or distractions, having a good idea of how you’ll answer some key questions, and looking and feeling your best are all crucial ways to relax and show your future employer how invaluable you’ll be to their organization.
