Nowadays, recruitment processes for jobs or internships tend to incorporate a virtual interview or an online interview as part of their process. So, to make sure you’re successful every time here are 6 ways to have a successful virtual or online interview.
If you treat a virtual interview as an in-person interview, then you will be just fine. Obviously, there is a big difference between the two. Not everybody feels comfortable speaking to a camera and seeing themselves back on their own screen! It is also difficult to convey yourself when there is potentially thousands of miles between you and the interviewer. Even though you are not meeting the other person in real-life, it is still important to prepare just as you would if you were physically going to the interview.
Prepare as you would for an in-person interview.
Do your research, learn about the company, and know what skills, knowledge and expertise you want to convey during the interview that are relevant. They are going to ask you the same standard questions, about what you know about the company, what are you going to add to their team, and general questions to learn more about you as a person, your personality and work ethic.
Do not rely on notes. Memorize information. It is obvious on camera if you glance at notes and it is not a good look!
Dress as you would for an in-person interview.
Don’t get comfortable. You might be doing the interview from home, but it is important to dress smart. Just as in an in-person interview, you will be judged within the first 30 seconds. Wearing smart clothes also signals to your mind that it is no time for relaxation – a powerful mind trick.
Do a test call the day before.
Make sure the day before your virtual interview, all your tech is working; audio, video and microphone. Also, test what is the best place and angle for your camera. Make sure your background has no clutter and there is nothing on show that is inappropriate. Keep it professional. Use headphones with a microphone for the best audio.
Create a distraction free environment.
A virtual interview will either be conducted via a smartphone or a laptop. So, put the other one away or mute all notifications. You don’t want any distractions. You don’t want to look unprofessional. You don’t want to be rude. This will also help to create a distraction free environment and help you to stay focused. Find a quiet place.
Inform those around you what you’re doing. Remember, the video of Professor Robert Kelly during a live BBC News interview that went viral? Well, you don’t want a friend, sibling or a parent unexpectedly appearing.
Be on time.
Make sure you have everything set up and ready to go at least 15 minutes before your virtual interview starts. There is nothing worse, than arriving late and keeping everybody waiting. Any extra time you have before the interview, you can use it to relax and clear your mind.
Be yourself.
You will be surprised how your own personal brand can leave a positive lasting impression on anyone, so don’t be afraid to be authentic or different and show some personality.
Follow these steps and the interviewer will understand that you have put in an effort and are taking the interview seriously.
Be professional and you will make the right impression.
If you would like to know more about life in Colombia or how to apply for a summer internship in Colombia, please contact a member of our team. If you would like to know more about our new remote internships - click here.
This article was written & published by Intern Colombia on 5 July 2019
Sources:
Komentarze