VIRTUAL INTERVIEW – GUIDE TO NAIL YOUR JOB INTERVIEW 2021

A Gartner, Inc. poll of 334 HR leaders on April 13 found that 86% of organizations are incorporating new virtual technology to interview candidates due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

A virtual Interview is when a job interview happens remotely, which allows the hiring manager to conduct the interview through video conferencing rather than meeting in person. 

Tools required to conduct the interview are a Desktop computer/ Laptop with camera and microphone, headphones, video conferencing app (ZOOM, GOOGLE MEET), uninterrupted internet connection.

Fresher or Experienced; Job Interview, in general, may seem difficult; when conducted virtually, it can be daunting or overwhelming to the candidates.

Here are 10 tips that will GUIDE you to face Virtual Interviews confidently and ACE the interview

1. CHECK YOUR TECHNOLOGY:

Check your microphone and screen, your internet connection, your entire set up, and decide on the software you will use to give the interview.

If you find your screen grainy, microphone sound low, or any other connectivity issues fix it instantly.

 Avoid using your phone to give the interview, instead use a laptop or computer. 

2. KEEP YOUR VIRTUAL ID PROFESSIONAL:

Your mail id and user name must remain professional. Your potential employer will not prefer mail id being cutesanya@mail.com or username as rockyrishab. 

Create an id that combines your name and appears professional.

Keep separate accounts, personal and professional.  This way you can keep track of your professional information better.

3. SET THE AMBIENCE:

Decide in advance where you are going to give your interview. 

Find a place with proper lighting, decent background; a Blank wall will suffice.

Ensure your messy room or laundry does not come in the frame.

It is wise if you can tidy up the room you are giving the interview.

• Switch off the TV.
• Put your phone in silent mode
• Make sure the door and windows are shut, to reduce noise.

4. DRESS PROFESSIONALY:

Test the color of your dress in lighting and see how it will look on screen; the color that looks good in person may appear dull on – screen.

So test and then decide on your dress.

Just because you have an amazing sweatshirt, and that looks good on-screen, should you wear it to the interview? BIG NO. 

Please dress professionally, formals.

5. MONITOR YOUR BODY LANGUAGE:

Basic Interview norms like a firm handshake; the confidence you exhibit through body language is not possible in virtual interviews.

Try small gestures like sitting straight; Looking at the camera to give an impression that you are looking at the interviewer’s eyes;

Nod occasionally, Converse with confidence; Do not forget hand gestures, use them appropriately.

Note vital points in post-it notes that needed to be conveyed to the interviewer; 

Stick them on the side of the laptop to avoid distraction during the interview.

6. AVOID DISTRACTIONS:

When you attend the interview in person in a more formal setting, distractions are rare.

Virtual interviews are given from the comfort of your home distractions are bound to happen. 

Inform your family members not to disturb, Ensure are Pets are cared for; so you can concentrate on your interview.

Despite being prepared if an unexpected walk-in happens, apologize and move on.

Don’t feel bad or embarrassed. It can happen to anybody.

7. BE PREPARED:

Avoid clicking or looking at your phone while giving the interview. It might be VIRTUAL still an ACTUAL interview. Brush on your subject

Prepare for standard questions asked in the interview?

Please avoid memorizing your response and sound automated. 

• Why did you leave your previous job?
• What do you know about our company
• What are your salary requirements?
• What are the biggest challenges you faced in your previous role?
• Tell me about yourself?
• Where do you see yourself from 5 years now?
• What is your strength and weakness?

Be spontaneous, confident, enthusiastic, and witty with your answers. 

8. FOLLOWUP:

Prepare questions that you want to ask your interviewer.

Do your standard follow up post-interview session.

REFERENCES:

https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2020-04-30-gartner-hr-survey-shows-86–of-organizations-are-cond