Guest post by Shaun Henris
In the market for a new job? There’s one thing you need to remember: interviews will most likely be done virtually.
Admittedly, trying to make a good impression via video can be quite hard. But keep in mind that since you locked in an interview, it means they liked your resume. It also means you understand what a good resume looks like.
So how do you ensure a successful virtual interview? Read on.
Have a copy of your resume with you.
There’s nothing worse than when an interviewer goes, “So, on your resume…” and you can’t remember what it is! It’s totally understandable for you to forget things in situations with pressure.
Of course, you can prevent that by having a copy of your resume with you. That way, when they refer to something on it, you can do that as well. You won’t be left fumbling and trying to remember what it is.
Dress for the interview.
One of the “dos” in a job interview is making sure you are dressed professionally. The last thing you want the interviewer to see is you looking like you just woke up. You do want to get the job, right?
Accordingly, dress up in something that would make you feel confident and ready to work. Never forget that first impressions will last for a long, long time.
Set up somewhere quiet.
If you can, find a nice, private area where you can join the online interview. Somewhere that’s sound-proof, if possible. Ambient noises can be quite distracting for you and the interviewer. And you also won’t be able to answer if you can’t hear the questions correctly.
Practice, practice, practice.
If you feel nervous, there’s nothing wrong with practicing. Do it with a friend you can call with any video conferencing software. Have your friend ask standard interview questions, as well as some more difficult ones.
Of course, get honest feedback after from your friend about how you did.
Just be yourself.
If you try too hard to come off as someone you’re not, the interviewer will feel it.
Companies are less likely to want to work with someone that’s not trustworthy and honest with their team members even if it seems cliché, let your true personality shine.
One last thing: after the interview, don’t be afraid to follow up. If you can, thank the interviewer via email. It will show that you value their time, and you can also keep yourself top-of-mind.
Of course, ultimately, the best way to boost your job prospects is thorough preparation. Remember: if you fail to plan, you plan to fail!