Advice That Will Help You Ace Your Virtual Interview
Haleigh Fobbe
Last March, college students were sent home to finish the rest of their spring semester online. We and the rest of the world struggled to push through the Covid-19 pandemic. Before the start of summer 2020, 16% of employers reported revoking internship offers. At the time, I was a Sophomore eager to earn any internship that I could find. I was fortunate enough to receive an un-paid remote internship. Through my experience, I learned about interviewing virtually and working remotely.
As a society, we've adapted to the remote lifestyle that was unexpectedly thrown our way. Seeing how many students were out of an internship opportunity this summer, it's important to start your internship or job search now rather than later. With no end in sight of the pandemic, the future is uncertain. Virtual meetings have become a norm for us, which is why I'm offering five tips on how to ace your virtual interview.
Check all technology
It seems silly to suggest such an obvious statement, but sometimes, we forget the little things. Clear your space, make sure your camera is on, and your microphone is working. Be sure to check your equipment well beforehand. You don't want any surprises five minutes before the interview starts. It also helps to wear headphones during the interview so you're focused on the recruiter and background noise is tuned out.
Sit down prepared
You may be tempted to search the internet for answers mid-interview, but it's pretty obvious when you're clicking around on your computer. So be focused and ready to answer any question that's thrown your way. Researching the company and learning as much as possible about them is the best way to look like an expert. Be able to entwine their company goals, mission, and vision into your answers.
Understand the responsibilities of the position you're applying for and be prepared to tell them why you're qualified. Jot down high-level thoughts that you want to discuss; this way, you won't seem too rehearsed, but you'll still be prepared. It will also benefit you to print out your resume and have it as a quick resource.
Have a list of questions for the interviewer. We all know the typical end-of-the interview question, "Do you have any questions for me?" Have your list ready and in front of you so you seem interested and passionate about the position. Show them that you're an analytical, deep thinker who wants to know the answers.
Monitor your body language
It can be difficult to get your message across or connect with someone through a computer screen in today's virtual world. And thanks to the pandemic, students are being forced to woo companies that they can't chat with in person. However, you can still impress an employer with your body language. It's essential to maintain eye contact with the person you're talking to. Remember to not look at yourself or your screen—keep contact with the camera. Posture is important. When you sit up straight and lean forward, you seem more interested in the conversation. As helpful as gestures can be, try not to use too many during a virtual interview. On such a small computer screen, hand gestures can be distracting to the other person.
Share stories, not bullet points
Nearly every question asked by a recruiter lends itself to a story: Tell me about a time you failed at something? Can you explain a time where you had to take on a leadership role? How would your closest friends describe you? Recruiters would rather listen to a short narrative rather than a list of bullet points that they've already seen. Evaluate the company's values and have short, relevant stories prepared. Make sure to write down your stories. They should be about situations where you exceeded your goals, faced a challenge, or learned something new. Give context, explain the hurdle you encountered, and end with a resolution. Telling stories creates a stronger connection between you and the recruiter.
Create a professional setting
Your environment and presentation reveals a lot about the person you are. If you have a sparse background, add a plant, picture, or stack of books to add character to your space and make it more appealing. Browse the web for tips on how to place objects in a way that complements your background and isn't too distracting. And if all else fails and your immediate surroundings are beyond repair, consider a virtual background. An advantage of virtual meetings is that you can make your background whatever you'd like. I suggest using a photo that flows with your story. Make it a picture of your college campus or a piece of artwork (if applicable). Get creative!
Everyone prepares in their own way—these are just five useful tips to consider before you begin your virtual interview. 2020 has been full of surprises, and we've adapted to the situation. Virtual interviews are only a part of adapting. If you enjoyed this article and are looking for more suggestions on how to ace a virtual interview, join us at our Verge "Ace Your Online Interview" event on Thursday, November 12th from 6-7 pm CST. At our event, you'll receive beneficial tips that will help you land your dream internship or job amongst a pandemic. Register here to get the Zoom link, meeting ID and password on that day.