How to Make the Best Impression on a Virtual Job Interview
Ms. Pomerantz is the CEO of TPG Staffing LLC and has over 35 years’ experience in recruiting top talent for some of the largest companies in the world and start-ups alike. She earned a BS from the University of Pittsburgh and a Master’s in Human Resource Management from Rutgers University. She also has senior HR credentials, including both SPHR and SHRM-SCP certifications.
Although many companies have returned to conducting interviews in person, most businesses today will start the interview process with a virtual job interview. In the case of full-time remote employees companies will often hire just using the virtual interview process. Whether you’re preparing for the first virtual job interview in the screening and selection process or you are on your fifth interview, making a strong, positive impression is essential in every video call interview. But, how can you ensure you’re leaving a lasting, professional impact every time? Let’s dive into 10 best practices for a successful virtual job interview.
1. Set the Right Environment for Success
First impressions count, and in the virtual world, your surroundings play a big part in that. Creating a clean and professional backdrop is the first step in making the best impression. Aim for a neutral setting, free from distractions, that reflects the professionalism of the role you seek and the company you’d like to represent. A well-lit area can make all the difference – avoid sitting with your back to a window, as bright light can leave you looking like a shadow. Natural lighting is best, but if that’s not possible, consider investing in a ring light for even, flattering illumination that makes you look your best.
2. Dress for Success (even if the job will be working remotely from your home)
While you may not need to wear a full suit, dressing appropriately is essential for any virtual job interview. How you present yourself visually can speak volumes about your attitude and professionalism. Choose attire that aligns with your company culture and the level of formality required for the interview. Remember, the professional dress code applies even in a virtual world – your wardrobe choices impact how you are perceived by hiring managers, HR professionals, potential colleagues, and C-suite executives alike.
3. Be Fully Engaged and Present
One of the biggest mistakes you can make during your virtual job interview is getting distracted by any of the following: checking your text and emails, reviewing documents, looking at social media or news headlines, or checking your stock portfolio. During your virtual job interview, give the interview(s) your undivided attention, maintaining eye contact with the camera, not your screen, to simulate a more natural, engaged interaction. Nod occasionally to show you’re actively listening, and make sure to mute yourself when not speaking to avoid background noise.
By staying fully engaged, you not only show respect to the person or people conducting the interview but also demonstrate that you have a strong work ethic and commitment to your role. This helps foster trust that you would become a valuable team player and partner if they made the decision to hire you.
4. Practice Clear and Concise Communication
Effective communication is crucial during virtual job video interviews. Without the benefit of in-person body language and cues, it’s essential to be clear and concise. Focus on staying on point and avoiding unnecessary tangents to make the best impression. If you’re presenting specific information about prior work experience, you may even want to have concise visual aids prepared in advance to share if appropriate.
Additionally, remember to pause occasionally for questions or feedback. Giving space for the interviewer(s) to speak, even in the midst of one of your answers, ensures that everyone’s voice is heard, which can be essential, particularly in settings where multiple individuals are conducting an interview at the same time. When being interviewed by more than one person at a time, remember that the primary questioner in an interview may not be the person who has the most influence on the hiring decision. Letting everyone speak and interject could be critical to determining whether the “right person” gets the information they may consider critical when evaluating candidates for the position.
5. Demonstrate How You Would Represent The Company
When you’re interviewing virtually, you’re not just representing yourself – you’re also indicating how you would represent the company in the future. This means being aware of how your behavior and communication reflect the organization’s values, culture, and professionalism. A well-organized video interview can leave a strong impression on hiring managers and others in the company.
Make sure your background, attire, and communication style align with your company’s brand. If you’re unsure, do some research about how the company positions its work culture and brand identity. Your professionalism and alignment with the company’s values, from how you dress to how you interact, can influence how they perceive your potential fit within the organization.
6. Begin Fostering Camaraderie and Building Relationships with Future Colleagues
Virtual job interviews don’t just serve as a means of “getting the job” – they are also an opportunity to begin to build camaraderie with your future colleagues, even when working remotely. Some small talk, even in an interview setting, helps establish rapport and strengthen relationships, making collaboration more effective in the long run.
Building strong, trusting relationships with your potential coworkers and supervisors right from the start can have a positive impact on your career development. People are more likely to support those they feel connected to and appreciate.
7. Keep Technical Issues to a Minimum
Before your call begins, take a few minutes to test your equipment – make sure your internet connection is stable, your camera works, and your microphone is clear. If possible, have a backup device available in case something goes wrong.
If you are running into connectivity issues during the interview, apologize briefly and do your best to resolve the issue quickly. If problems persist, consider suggesting a backup communication method, such as continuing the conversation via phone or email.
8. Mind Your Body Language
Even in a virtual setting, body language is still important. Avoid slouching or leaning too far back in your chair, as it can convey disinterest or a lack of professionalism. Instead, sit up straight and engage actively in the conversation during the interview. You don’t have to smile constantly, but showing enthusiasm and interest through your facial expressions and body language will help make a positive impression.
Also, be mindful of distractions. Avoid looking at your phone, checking other devices, or multitasking during the interview. These actions can undermine your credibility and make you appear disengaged. If the interviewer gets the sense that you aren’t fully engaged during the interview, they’ll think you aren’t particularly interested in the position.
9. Use the Chat Function Wisely
Many video conferencing platforms offer a chat function. This can be a useful tool for asking quick questions, sharing links, or providing additional context during your video call interview. However, use this feature sparingly to avoid disrupting the flow of conversation. Stay on-topic, and avoid using chat excessively.
10. Follow Up Professionally
After your virtual job interview, always follow up with a professional email summarizing key takeaways, next steps, or actions that need to be taken. This reinforces your professionalism and shows that you’re proactive and genuinely interested in the position. It’s also an excellent opportunity to express gratitude and appreciation for the interviewer’s time and input.
In conclusion, even as back-to-office work increases, virtual job interviews are here to stay for the future. Making a positive first impression is critical for any job interview, whether it be a virtual job interview or an in-person job interview. By presenting yourself professionally, staying engaged, communicating clearly, and fostering strong relationships, you will give yourself the best possible chance at landing the position you seek and advancing your career in the future.
By mastering the art of virtual communication during the job interview process, you’ll stand out as a reliable, professional, and engaged candidate, maximizing your odds of being hired for the position and starting your career path at that company on the right foot. Following these 10 recommendations can help you go a long way toward ensuring you succeed in your job search and future career development. If you are asked to come into their office for an in-person interview, please review our blog post called “8 Things Not To Do During or After Your Job Interview“.
TPG Staffing has decades of experience in the staffing industry. We are here and ready to help you find your next job and advance your career. If you would like to know more about how TPG Staffing can help you with your job search, please call us at 732-246-7100.