Preparing For A Virtual Interview

There is nothing quite as nerve wracking as a job interview. Virtual meetings are becoming increasingly popular due to a variety of factors so if you have been offered a virtual interview from the comforts of your own home, there are still certain rules that you should adhere to.

Be punctual! Many meetings put you in a virtual waiting room prior to the meeting commencing so you must show up as you would if you had been invited in person. At least five minutes before the official  interview time, ensure that you are waiting. The interviewing panel will be notified when you are there and it will not get things off to a good start if you are late!

Check all connections and settings on your computer beforehand. It may sound common sense but I can personally recall countless times in meetings - some of them important - when someone needs to be prompted several times to turn on their microphone or camera.

Although we all love our pets, this is one occasion when it would not be a good idea to have your dog sitting next to you or your cat curled up and visible on the screen. Pets can be noisy and  distracting and you need to remain calm and professional with the focus on nothing but the interview.

Hold the interview in a quiet area of the house whereby if there is an unexpected knock at the door or the doorbell rings, it will not serve as a distraction or an embarrassment. Likewise, ensure no one will enter the area you are in until the interview has been completed.

Be mindful of where you position yourself for your interview. The aim is to be as professional as possible. A plain background whilst sitting on a chair and having your computer in a suitable situation in front of you is a much better idea than sinking into our comfortable sofa surrounded by cushions and throws. Try to emulate what you would be offered in a formal in person interview.

Body language is very important so sit up straight and make regular eye contact with the interviewing panel. Stay fully engaged and show your attentiveness by nodding occasionally and making appropriate gestures.

Dress appropriately. You may be at home but you still need to dress to impress so ensure you are smart and well groomed. You need to appear both confident and professional so put as much thought into your personal appearance as you would if you were having an in person meeting. Luckily, you can gain some comfort by wearing just your socks or slippers as no one will notice those!