Online interviews are now becoming the standard as businesses continue to adapt to grow Due to the extreme extraordinary changes brought about by the COVID-19 epidemic, employers have turned to online interviewing technologies and video conferencing programs like as Zoom, Google Meet, and Skype, among many others, to assess potential employees in a timely and cost-effective fashion.

Appearing for an online interview might be intimidating for several prospective candidates, particularly first-timers. As a result, I’ve compiled a list of some suggestions that will not only enable you put your best foot forward but will also put you on the road to success, even though you might be thousands of miles away.

1. Before you begin, check your devices and wifi service

Remember to test your wifi connection a few hours before your virtual interview to confirm that it is stable. Have such a PC that satisfies all of the technical requirements. Test your webcam, audio, and headset well before the interview as well.A bad internet service results in delayed videos and distorted audio, which could become a deal breaker. As a result, make all required preparations to guarantee that the internet can provide high-quality video.

2. Set the tone and keep interruptions to a minimum

If you struggle with your laptop or alter your posture throughout the interview, the company will have reasons to question your candidacy since you may appear unprepared. To prevent making such an impression, plan ahead of time by selecting a location with adequate illumination. A bare wall in the background will assist you in being the main focus of the dialogue.

Next, aim your camera at or somewhat around eye level for the best possible eye contact. If you don’t have a laptop stand, then set it on top of a stack of books. To prevent seeming washed out, keep the light in front of you. Reduce clutter from the area and clean it up to make it appear more orderly.

3. Dress professionally

Because a virtual interview doesn’t really imply that it is not genuine, be dressed as you might for an in-person interview. Formal wear demonstrates your seriousness about the job and aids in the establishment of a positive connection with your recruiter. Choose professional or business casual clothes, such as button-down shirts and blazers. Furthermore, avoid any bright colours or distracting designs to prevent drawing your interviewer’s focus away from you.

4. Switch off or silence your phone’s notifications

The pre-interview protocol requires (and it should go without saying) that you should switch off your phone alerts before going online. Log out of any social media or messaging platforms that could send notifications to the laptop. Websites with auto-play music or video should be closed. 

Lock your windows to block out any sirens or traffic horns. Switch off the television. Well before the online interview, evaluate your surroundings and eliminate any possible interruptions. But, if they occur, don’t be alarmed; instead, accept them with grace.

5. Keep your body language professional

You could express your enthusiasm and confidence via nonverbal communication, such as body language. Retain good body position and establish good eye contact to appear attentive. 

Begin with the virtual greeting – say hello and face into the webcam to smile and nod confidently and warmly. According to research, interviewers are much more likely to recall what a prospect said if they keep eye contact throughout the interview. Similarly, whenever the individual has completed speaking, you can use a visual indication such as nodding to indicate that you understood them.

6. Also have backup plan in hand

Whenever a technical error occurs during a video conference, everyone can see. Oftentimes, even after doing all that was possible, a connectivity problem might still arise. As a result, have a fallback option ready just in case the video software fails or the wifi goes down. If the internet goes down on you, you may ask to do a classic telephone interview. Furthermore, if you face technical difficulties such as a stuck video or echoing audio, you could also politely request the interviewer to repeat anything you might have missed.

7. Keep in touch

A timely follow-up might allow you to market yourself and discuss topics you may have missed during the interview. It’s a good gesture to send a brief follow-up email to the recruiter, reinforcing your enthusiasm by thanking them for their time.