This article was updated on Feb. 15, 2023, to include new information.
Video interviews boomed in popularity during the COVID pandemic, and despite our return to normal, the format is here to stay. This is a great tool to utilize for both parties, especially if you are interviewing for an out-of-state position. Many find it can be more beneficial to have a virtual face-to-face interview as opposed to a phone interview. Both you and the employer are able to see each other and read key body language in somewhat of an odd situation.
Below are a few tips on how to prepare and have a successful remote interview:
Choose Your Space Wisely
- Choose a well-lit area.
- If the lighting in your space is insufficient, find a window with the light facing you.
- Make sure this space is quiet and limit any possible interruptions.
- Clear clutter or tidy up objects in the background. Try to keep your background as neutral as possible.
- Position the webcam so that you are looking up slightly and centered on the screen. Prop up a device, such as a tablet or a smartphone to avoid holding during the interview.
- If you wear glasses, adjust the lighting or camera to reduce glare. Also, clean your glasses before the interview.
Test Your Equipment
- Check the stability of your internet connection.
- Check that your webcam and audio are working properly.
- Before the interview, download any programs through which the interview will be conducted (ie: Skype, Zoom or Google Hangouts, etc.) so you can allow adequate time to troubleshoot any issues.
- If you have a personal account already set up, check your username (that it is appropriate) and your privacy settings.
- Do a test run the day before and the day of.
What To Do During the Interview
- Stay engaged, upbeat, and maintain good posture throughout.
- Making eye contact is as important as it is during in-person interviews.
- When answering questions, try to look directly into the webcam. This helps align your gaze with the interviewers as opposed to looking slightly down to look at them.
- When you are listening, it is okay to look directly at them on the screen in order to give your full attention.
- Remember to nod and smile when appropriate. Even small hand gestures are okay but avoid fidgeting too much.
If Something Goes Wrong…
- Don’t panic! Let’s face it, technology can fail for multiple reasons whether they are visually, audibly, or even both.
- Make sure you have the interviewers’ contact information so you can reach them for any reason.
- If unexpected outside noise happens (plane, train, sirens, construction) apologize, explain, and wait for it to end. Put your microphone on mute if necessary.
- If unexpected inside noise happens (family, kids, pets) apologize and ask for a few moments to remedy the situation. Again, mute your microphone as you step away.
Additional Tips
- Close out any other applications and turn off any possible notifications.
- Turn your phone on silent or leave it out of the room to avoid distraction.
- Have a copy of your resume on hand with a pen ready to take notes or write down any questions.
- Dress professionally. Even if they only see your upper half, it is a good idea to wear the full, appropriate attire.
- Prepare the same way you would for an in-person interview.
- Practice with friends or family a few times as it will feel more natural over time and during the interview.
- Research the company and write down any questions you may have.
If you’re looking for more resources, be sure to check out our related guide: Tips on Working with a Recruiter During Your Job Search… from a Recruiter!
For other tips on resume writing and formatting, check out our website feature on how to create a killer resume. It’s specific to clinical laboratory professionals, but many of the tips are relevant for any career or industry!