8 Do’s and Don’ts of Virtual Interviews

As a job seeker in our current market, you know that virtual interviews are becoming just as common as traditional, in-person settings. While there are standard topics and techniques to practice that apply to all interviews, there are some special things to remember about interviewing virtually.

(As always, don’t skip on your interview prep regardless of the type of interview. We cover that here.)

Here are eight virtual interview tips we want you to know:

1. DO test your equipment.

There is nothing worse than logging in right before the interview and having the camera malfunction. While some technical glitches are out of your control, it’s important to prepare as much as possible for what you can control. 

The day before your interview, confirm you have the most current software downloaded for the virtual interview platform. For example, platforms like Zoom and Skype update regularly and may not operate without the latest installation. Also, run a test on your camera and microphone to make sure you look and sound your best. Finally, make sure your power cord and any connected equipment are all working properly to prevent dropping out of your call unexpectedly.

2. DON’T dress for just the camera.

It can be tempting to get ready from the waist up and leave on the pajama pants, but that would be a big mistake.

There’s always a chance you’ll need to stand up during the interview, and then everyone sees the Cookie Monster pajama pants you have on below the blazer. For employers, this may send the message that you didn’t treat this interview as seriously as they did.

On top of that, there’s an emotional benefit to being dressed head to toe. The full interview ensemble can put you in the right headspace and allow for increased confidence in your interview.

3. DO prepare your environment.

Although your skills should be the main focus an interviewer takes away from your time together, major background distractions could steal the show. You want to ensure you have good lighting by having a window for natural light in the room, but a window directly behind you will create a shadow and make it difficult to see you clearly. If you’re doing several interviews, you may want to invest in a small ring light to show off your best self.

Also, check your background for a simple and non-distracting space if possible. Bookshelves and light décor are okay, but you don’t want stacks of clutter or unusual items behind you. When in doubt, a virtual green screen or blurred background can be a great tool for creating a neutral space.

4. DON’T forget your notes.

Since you aren’t traveling to an on-site interview, you may feel like you don’t have to bring anything with you. However, preparing some notes can help keep your focus on the conversation. Also, since you’re virtual, you can use that to your advantage by keeping your prep nearby to reference for a refresher and remember what questions you want to ask.

5. DO strategize your camera engagement.

On the same note, you want to direct your eye contact to the camera to help bridge the connection gap that comes with being on the computer. A great way to marry this goal with having your notes is using sticky notes. You can list the specific items you want to discuss, reminders, and questions on stickies and place them around the camera. This way, you avoid consistently looking down while also having the support of your notes nearby. 

6. DON’T keep a live audience.

As a dog family, I can tell you my pets are quiet and calm until the moment I hop on an important call. Amazon could come down your driveway at just the wrong time, and then you’re blessed with an unexpected chorus of howls throughout your interview. 

To avoid this, keep all pets two doors away from your interview or on a different floor. For young children, arrange childcare during the interview time if needed, and for the older kids (or spouses), put a note on the door letting them know to stay outside the room until the interview is wrapped up.

7. DO have a backup.

Even with your equipment and environment preparation beforehand, things can still happen that are outside your control, like internet or power outages. Make sure to have everything fully charged before the interview, and when possible, call into the interview and use your phone as the audio so if your internet drops, you’ll still be able to continue the conversation via phone. 

8. DON’T skip on the thank-you note.

Without the in-person component of an interview, there will be several little moments you’ll miss out on. The handshake, meeting in the lobby, and the walk to the door are all opportunities to build rapport. You want to do all you can to build a connection while interviewing online, and a great way to cap that off is with a thank-you note.

Within 24 hours of your interview, send a personal email to all the interviewers thanking them for their time, expressing your enthusiasm for the position, and offering to help answer any additional questions. Whenever possible, it’s beneficial to add an anecdote from the interview itself to help make sure you’re memorable.

Happy Hunting!

Sidney Hubner is a Transition Specialist with the Serving Spouses Team at Hire Heroes USA where she has supported more than 400 military spouses and veterans in finding meaningful employment…so far. She is a military spouse herself, married to a USMC veteran and has personal experience navigating the balance between career, family, and military life. She has a diverse professional background across the social work field, including child welfare, domestic violence survivor support, and homeless employment empowerment. Since joining Hire Heroes USA in 2018, Sidney has engaged with clients individually as their personal Transition Specialist and in groups by facilitating more than eight virtual workshops. While she has always helped with behind-the-scenes projects, her passion is social advocacy through building unique relationships with clients to ensure they have all the tools and support to achieve their career goals.