Make a strong impression during virtual interview
Q: I have been invited for virtual interviews for the last six months, and so far, no job offers. I find it somewhat awkward to read non-verbal signals from the interview and wonder if I am making a good impression? I would appreciate any suggestions on how to be more successful with virtual interviews.
A: Virtual interviewing is here to stay, and it serves as a good way to screen candidates before inviting them for in-person interviews. But interviewing remotely adds a measure of awkwardness due to the limitations imposed on you by technical equipment, the interviewer’s virtual skills, and your ability to convey the image you want to send.
Just like in-person interviews, you want to develop good rapport by paying attention to the questions asked and being aware of your answers. It is often not the most qualified candidate who receives a job offer but the one who best markets themselves.
Non-verbal communication makes up a large percentage of how we interact with one another. During a virtual interview, watch closely for behavioral cues and pay attention to gestures. Simultaneously, make sure you are smiling and sending positive non-verbal cues, such as appropriate nodding and hand gestures to support your enthusiasm.
Often, the difference in presenting a good impression relates to the equipment you are using and the lighting. Trying to make a good impression in a dimly lit room or having a busy, distracting background can be an issue. In a virtual interview, it pays to stick with a professional setting.
Your choice of interview clothes can also affect the impression you send. For example, it is much safer to choose solid colors such as navy, black, greys with a light blue or white shirt. A good rule of thumb is to stay away from busy patterns or accessories that will take the attention off you and shift it to your attire. Make sure the color you wear does not clash with your background.
Naturally, if you are interviewing for a creative position, you tend to have more leeway in expressing your originality. But keep in mind during a video interview, you want to focus more on building rapport and not your interesting book collection in the background.
Practice answering virtual interview questions just like you would an in-person interview. Develop a list of key questions you would like to ask the interviewer. They help with building rapport and show your interest in the position. Remember to keep your list off to the side rather than looking down at your notes.
Know your introduction and practice it to build up your confidence.
If you work from home and have family members close by, do your best to find a quiet, private place to interview.
Trying to make a good impression in a dimly lit room or having a busy, distracting background can add to your presentation without you saying a word. In a virtual interview, it pays to stick with a professional setting.