How to Rock an Online Interview
Due to several factors, more and more events are held online across various digital platforms, including the dreaded job interview. Luckily, adapting to changing times makes you stand out to potential employers and sets you up that much more for any job. Of course, when preparing for an online interview, you want to honor standard rules such as dress; however, there are certain tricks and pointers for the digital age that you will undoubtedly want to take note of for your next interview. So, keep reading and head into that chatroom confident and ready to land your dream job!
Still Dress to Impress
Interviews the old way taught us a thing or two. Only some, not all, old-style rules need to go out the door for an online interview. For instance, you will want to pay attention to your interview attire. The standard practice is to dress one notch above the company's typical dress. For example, if the rule is business casual, you may want to add a suit coat or blazer to look neat and professional. How we look online is different from how we look in person, so avoid loud patterns such as stripes or polka dots that may not look great on screen.
Just because you can't physically shake your interviewers' hand and they can only see you from the waist up doesn't mean that you should skimp on the details. Wear a pair of dress shoes to your online interview. This may seem a little odd; however, psychologically, this will prepare you that much more to be in the interview mindset.
Eliminate Distractions and Double-Check Your Connection
Being home, in a coffee shop, or any other non-office setting comes with its fair share of distractions. These distractions have the power to knock you off your game. Be sure to carefully select your surroundings and go for quiet, well-lit areas with a stable internet connection. Neutral colors are preferred, so your interviewer focuses on you, not your surroundings. If you are at home, place pets and children in areas where they cannot disrupt your interview. For a pre-interview, video call a friend or loved one on the same digital platform to check the connection, sound, and lighting.
Use Their Blindspots to Your Advantage
The screen only allows a specific window into your physical surroundings. Once you've selected your background and lighting, you might notice a lot of area on the desk in front of you that your interviewer cannot see. Use this to your advantage! Make a cheat sheet of potential answers you prepared, some notes about the company interviewing you, some points you want to be sure to cover, and any positive affirmations that you may wish to provide for yourself. If you have a lucky object, you can also place this near to you and out of frame for added comfort and encouragement!
Maintain Eye Contact with the Camera
Now, this may seem a little unnatural at first; however, looking directly into the camera comes off as eye contact with your interviewer. You may feel the desire to look at their incoming video in the corner of the screen; however, this may look like you are staring off into space. Your posture and eye contact will remain professional if you keep your eyes forward and in line with the camera on the top of your phone or laptop.
The times are changing; however, one thing remains true: interviews are stressful. Using these tips will prepare you that much more to rock your interview and land your dream job!
