06 Nov Online Interview Tips: How to Make a Good Impression
Embarking on the job interview journey can seem daunting, riddled with anxiety and uncertainty. However, with the proper preparation and the right approach, it is possible to navigate the online interview process more smoothly and effectively. Let us be your interview, Yoda, if you will. We’re here to help guide you on this journey with some valuable online interview tips and insights to help you land the job and alleviate some of the stress that comes with interviews. If you’re gearing up for your inaugural interview, these insights will prove beneficial. And if you’ve been through several rounds without securing a job offer yet, then these recommendations could prove to be an absolute game-changer.
Why Good Interview Skills Are Important
Before diving into our comprehensive list of tips, let’s first address why honing your interview skills is crucial. An interview provides a prime opportunity to showcase not only your qualifications and experience but also your personality and fit within the company culture.
While in-person interviews allow for direct interaction, online interviews present a different set of unique challenges and opportunities which is why sometimes you have to work a little harder to make sure your personality and skill set shines through. Regardless of the format, your primary goal should be to leave the interviewer thinking, “I want to know more.” Of course, if you nail it, that’s great too, but the goal is to create curiosity in the interviewer.
Online Interview Tips
So, without further ado, here are our top 10 online interview tips to help you make a compelling and unforgettable impression during your interview:
1. Do Your Homework
The first step is to conduct thorough research about the company, its culture, the industry it operates in, and the specific role you’re applying for. Understand the company’s mission and values and consider how you align with them. Also, try to find out about the company’s recent achievements or projects, as this shows your genuine interest in their work.
2. Dress to Impress
Dressing professionally for a virtual interview is just as important as dressing correctly for an in-person one. Dressing appropriately shows respect for the interviewer and communicates your seriousness about the role. Remember, first impressions matter!
3. Location is Everything
When setting up for a virtual interview, choose a quiet, well-lit space for the interview to minimize distractions and ensure you can be seen and heard clearly. Keep your background clutter free . If you use a virtual background, please make sure it is of an office setting and that it moves with you. You can also blur your background if you don’t have a space that is suitable.
4. Mind Your Body Language
Body language speaks volumes about your confidence and attitude. Maintain good posture, keep steady eye contact, and be mindful of any nervous habits you have – flipping a pen, looking down, looking at a second monitor etc. Even in a virtual setup, these non-verbal cues can significantly influence the interviewer’s perception of you.
5. Listen
It sounds easy, but so often, we’re so focused on what we’re going to say next that we don’t actually listen to what the interviewer is saying. Virtual interviews can add another element of difficulty because of the sound overlap that can occur. Just be patient and if you need clarification on a question, be sure to ask. Then, answer each question asked thoroughly and honestly.
6. Test Your Tech
Ensuring your technology is reliable is crucial to not being late or missing the interview entirely. Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand to prevent any technical glitches. Being late for an interview is a definite no-go. It shows poor time management skills and suggests a lack of respect for the interviewer’s time. Plan to log on at least 10 minutes early to settle in and compose yourself before the interview starts.
7. Know Your Strengths and Weaknesses and Be Honest
This is a common topic in many interviews. Be prepared to discuss your strengths and weaknesses honestly. For weaknesses, focus on what you’ve learned from them and how you’re working to improve. This shows self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth. Also, by being honest, you don’t have to worry about getting caught in a lie. Remember, the truth is the easiest thing to remember.
8. Ask Thoughtful Questions
This demonstrates that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role and the company. It also allows you to assess whether the company is a good fit for you. Prepare a few insightful questions in advance based on your research of the company. Remember, you’re interviewing them as much as they are interviewing you.
9. Remove Distractions
Prior to your interview, remove anything that could be a distraction such as your cell phone or even alerts on your computer. The interviewer wants to make sure that the interview is your top priority, not checking your messages or multitasking while interviewing. Removing distractions also includes the potential of wandering pets or people in the background. Try to make arrangements so they won’t be a distraction to you or the interviewer.
10. Follow Up
After the interview, send a thank-you note expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to interview. This not only shows good manners but also reinforces your interest in the role.
Remember, interviewing is a skill, and like any skill, it improves with practice. So take these interview preparation tips to heart, practice as much as you can, and go out there ready to make a memorable impression. Best of luck!
