Virtual interview tips

Posted on 24 May 2023 by Laura Mercer

More and more businesses have returned to the office on a hybrid basis, but are still conducting 1st stage interviews virtually. They've become the norm and we are finding that more and more of our candidates are really comfortable now with this style of interview. Perhaps sometimes a little too comfortable! We thought we'd share our top tips for anyone who is going through, or will be going through a virtual interview process. We hope it helps!

Check your tech

Check that your equipment is working. Microphone, speakers and camera all set up? Check that your internet connection is ok and make sure that you’re not downloading or running any updates at the same time.
Do a trial run if possible to check if everything is running properly.
Where you can you should do the interview via your laptop or computer rather than mobile phone. Make sure you are sitting in the middle of the screen, not too far that the client can't see you, but not too close that they can see up your nose either!

Be prepared

Have the CV/Portfolio/Presentation ready and to hand and ensure you’ve had time before the interview to re-read and practice talking through your experience and portfolio.
Re-read the job description and make sure you have examples to share of your experience, relevant to the role and their requirements.
Log in early and check that everything is working.
Dress code - yes the interview is virtual, but first impressions still count, so don't turn up in your pjs!

Minimise your distractions

Turn off your emails, any updates on your laptop and turn off your mobile – it’s easy to get distracted by alerts and pop ups during an interview but your focus needs to be 100% on the interview and your new potential boss!
On that note, turn off your ring doorbell and make sure you have peace and quiet. The last thing you want is your dog barking when the doorbell goes!
Be mindful of your backdrop – consider your position and lighting. It’s incredibly easy to get distracted.

Tone of voice and facial expressions

It's even harder on a virtual interview to get your enthusiasm and confidence across and body language plays such a big part. Therefore, really focus on your tone of voice and facial expressions. Make sure you are smiling, speaking clearly and confidently.
Remember to look at the camera! Obvious you'd think, but we've had a lot of feedback from clients saying the candidate wasn't looking at them and appeared to be looking off into space!

Have a strong finish

A classic handshake can’t happen virtually but it is important to end the interview well! Be clear with the interviewer that you are really interested in their role and would love to progress your application further with them.
Ask if they have any questions or initial question marks from meeting you.
Thank them for their time.