In the post-pandemic situation, the workspace culture has actually witnessed a huge paradigm shift. Be it the hybrid working mode or the popularity of virtual interviews, the shift is being appreciated a lot. Most companies are asking candidates not to take the hassle of coming to their organisation for an interview. A Zoom call is perfectly doing the job. This is also allowing candidates from different parts of the city and country to easily attend the initial interviews while saving a lot of money. Additionally, it is also allowing a lot of time flexibility. Thus in every way, virtual interviews are now being preferred over walk-in ones.
But candidates are physically present in front of the employer during a walk-in interview, which works to a huge extent in favour of the candidate. This is because the body language and confidence of the candidate are most prominent in this case. But not to worry, there are tested tricks to ace virtual interviews as well, and this blog will tell you about them. Read to the end to discover the tricks.
How to Ace Virtual Interviews?
- Prepare yourself –
Before the interview, make sure you look into the employer. Look out for their biography, read testimonials from those who have interned or worked with the company, and look for current news. Your talk will flow more easily throughout the interview if you are better prepared to pose intelligent questions.
Review your résumé and the job description during this time as well, and think about how your prior experience might help you perform better in the position. You’ll feel more assured during the video conference if you are still mindful of this data.
- Be punctual –
One of the simplest ways to get things going well is to arrive on time. Although you don’t need to get on 15 minutes before like you would for an in-person interview, you should still start the video chat right on schedule. Ensure you have the appropriate software downloaded (if necessary) and everything is running well. You might also want to make a test call to a reliable buddy to straighten any connection issues.
- Dress appropriately –
At the very least, ensure that you appear polished and professional. Nobody will notice if you’re wearing pyjamas with your branded shirt and tie. Thanks to the wonders of video calls! Think about wearing a button-up shirt or blouse, and be sure to groom with the same consideration you would for a face-to-face encounter. Wearing outfits that feel comfortable and confident will not only help you create a great impression on your interviewer but will also help you stay focused.
- Take care of the background –
You probably wouldn’t bring your future boss over if your apartment was covered in socks and dirty clothes. So don’t let them see it through video calls as well! Choose a spot in your home that is tidy and peaceful where you can accept the call. In order to avoid having someone stroll behind you or make a loud noise while you’re talking about your professional skills and flaws, make sure to address this with the housemates in advance.
- Keep eye contact –
To help you remember to gaze directly into your webcam throughout the call, you might want to place some googly eyes next to it or whatever else suits you. Doing this makes you look to be making eye contact rather than idly glancing at your device. Maintaining eye contact—even via a laptop—helps build a sense of sincere connection and concentration when trying to connect with your interviewer.
- Speak slowly and clearly –
The use of video interviewing technology can occasionally result in delays or poor voice pickup. Take your time when speaking and enunciate your words to avoid this from happening. By doing this, you’ll make sure that your interviewer can hear and understand you at all times.
- Stay focused and visibly engaged –
Active listening is one technique to demonstrate to your interviewer that you are driven and interested. Think about nodding your head to show that you understand what they are saying and, if necessary, asking questions. Take handwritten notes as well! Have a notebook close by so you can scribble down any questions or important points from the interview without having to type aloud and interrupt the flow of the session.
- Preach your work –
If appropriate, be ready to show your interviewer your portfolio or examples of your work. Have some open tabs at the ready, and be willing to share your screen if the topic arises. Bring questions you’d like to ask the interviewer with you as well. It demonstrates initiative and sincere curiosity.
- Stay alert post interview –
Don’t ghost your interviewer after the call has ended. Respond to recruiter communications right away, and be sure to check your email at least twice daily to remain on top of any outreach or next steps that may come your way. But also refrain from bothering them for more updates. Give them some of their time so they can evaluate your performance. Calls that come in frequently may annoy them.
Wrapping it up –
As workplaces continue to change to accommodate the demands of their employees, virtual interviews are growing in popularity. Professionals who are or will be traversing the job market will undoubtedly come across this new sort of video conference. Therefore they must take the appropriate precautions to get ready. You’ll be one step closer to joining your dream job if you adhere to these eight pieces of advice for acing the virtual interview.
About the author –
Jeffrey Austin, a former educator by profession, has recently joined the team of MyAssignmenthelp.io. He is a book club member and loves reading and reviewing English classics. He believes that youth must be introduced to the classics of literature, for they can teach a lot.