By Lynn Kavcsak, Dean of Career & Employment Resources

During the COVID-19 pandemic, employers have continued to screen job candidates by phone; but second-round, in-person interviews are less common. You’re likely to find yourself participating in a virtual interview with a potential employer, using a platform such as Zoom, WebEx, or Microsoft Teams. Below are tips for a polished virtual interview:

Before your interview:

• Research the company by visiting its website and reviewing its mission statement.
• Prepare two or three questions to ask at the end of the interview.
• Dress appropriately, as you would for an in-person interview – not too casual or too formal.
• Set up a simple, professional-looking backdrop for your interview.
• Minimize files and other distractions on your computer.
• Position yourself 12-18 inches from your screen.
• Test positions so that your face is not too high or too low for the camera.
• Test platform audio in advance.
• PRACTICE using different virtual platforms.
• Log in 5-10 minutes early.

During your interview:

• Smile!
• Make good eye contact by looking into the camera.
• Listen attentively and respond appropriately to all questions.
• Show enthusiasm and professionalism.
• Keep noise to a minimum, including pets and children.

After your interview:

• Follow up the interview with a personal email, thanking your interviewer and reiterating why you would be a good fit for the position and the company.
• Be patient. Companies are hiring, but the hiring process is taking longer during the pandemic.

Good luck!

Source: Dress for Success sponsored Industry-Specific Hiring Practices during Covid-19 Coaching Panel, Monday, September 14, 2020.