Before 2020, virtual interviews were almost unheard of. Even candidates applying for roles from distant locations were often flown to the office for an onsite interview.
Today, virtual interviews have become the new normal and it’s here to stay.
While virtual interviews can be more convenient because they’re conducted from the comfort of your own home, there are a few extra things to keep in mind that will help you interview successfully.
Don’t Wear Sweatpants
While it may be tempting to wear something ultra comfortable like sweatpants or pajama bottoms, it’s important to remember that this is a job interview. You’ll likely be able to dress more casually if you get hired, but interviewing is a chance to give a great first impression.
So even though the interview is at home, wear what you would wear to an interview if it was in an office.
Do Check Your Internet Connection
Interviews can be stressful. Add in blurry video and grainy audio, and your interview could go from regular interview nerves to full-blown stress.
Nothing is more important during an interview than being able to clearly communicate with the other person. To make sure you’re ready, try making a test call with the video conferencing software the company is using beforehand.
Don’t Attend Your Interview in a Common Area
If possible, make your interview call from a private space. If you live somewhere small — with family or roommates — and don’t have any private space, communicate clearly with the others in your house.
Let them know what time you have an interview and ask them to give you space until you’re done. Coordinating beforehand is key.
Do Wear Headphones
Even if you have a private space for your interview, wearing headphones can limit distractions and keep your focus on the interview. Plus, wearing headphones will increase your ability to hear your interviewer, even with a poor internet connection. Just remember to charge them ahead of time if they’re wireless.
Do Silence Notifications
There’s nothing like a text notification popping up on your screen to yank you out of the moment. To avoid a huge distraction like that, silence all of your notifications on your phone and computer. If possible, put your phone in another room or on Do Not Disturb mode.
Take the First Step on Your Journey to a New Career
Finding a new job can be a challenging process, but it doesn’t have to be. If you have the right skills under your belt and a portfolio of practice projects to show off, you’ll be able to impress any interviewer.
Check out Udacity’s catalog to find the right Nanodegree program for you that will help you prepare for the new world of work.
