Zoom Interview - how to make the best virtual impression...
2nd March 2021

Since the onset of the pandemic and the majority of people (who are not keyworkers) are home based, Zoom interviews have become the primary way that employers are hiring.

For some this might be the first interview you have had virtually, for others it has become a common way to communicate and they are therefore more practiced at it. You still need to put in the same amount of preparation that you would have to go into an office, and meet face to face and be prepared! The following list of tips might help: 

1. Learn how to use Zoom

Zoom is a free app that can be downloaded on a computer or mobile device. It is a good idea to start practicing on Zoom a week or so prior to your interview. That way, you will have no issues when it comes to the day. Practice for your interview by recording yourself on video and playing it back to check your audio and video quality and speaking pace. Or practice by calling a friend and getting them to video you and give you feedback.

2. Come prepared.

Your video interview will be just as if you were having in-person interview, so your preparation should reflect that. Here are a few things to research that are essential prep for any interview:

  • The company itself – their specialisms, ethos, competitors, and purpose.
  • The position you are interviewing for. Why has it come about and what does it entail?
  • The company’s top and most recent achievements. Press highlights, success stories etc

 

3. Remove the potential of any distractions.

In a face-to-face meeting, distractions can happen, but the interviewer and the candidate would both be involved and it’s likely that the interviewer would direct how to deal with the distraction. But in a Zoom interview, your future employer would not know that the doorbell has gone, or the dog is barking at the pigeon in the garden. It can be hard to manage when your only interface is the screen. It’s very important to make sure you pre-empt any likely distractions and set up your space in a quiet, distraction-free area.

4. Find a neutral background

More than any other tip, the professionals say that careful attention to your background is critical. You don’t want a messy room or your unmade bed in the background. Try to find a spot where there is nothing to distract attention from you. Try and make sure if you are unable to sit with a fairly blank space behind you that your surroundings are neat and tidy.

5. Dress as you would for a real face to face

When you get dressed for a video interview, you want to be just as formal as you would be for an in-person interview. This means from head to toe. Even if the interviewer can’t see your lower half, you will feel more confident if you are fully put together. And if you happen to leave your jogging bottoms on and have to get up for some reason – it will look a bit odd!

6. Test your equipment

Because we all know technology has a mind of its own, be sure you are all set for the Zoom interview.

Check your Internet connection. You want to make sure your Internet is working properly, and it is up to par in terms of its normal speed. If not, reset your modem or router.

Use a computer. You may be able to get a more stable Internet connection on a desktop or laptop computer compared to using a mobile device. Plus, the sound may come across a little louder and clearer.

Charge your laptop. If using a laptop, make sure it is fully charged since being on Zoom for a good amount of time can impact your battery.

7. Final checks

- Always presume your camera is on! That way you can’t get caught out unprepared.

- Sound check to make sure your speakers and mic are turned on if you’re having audio problems.

- Use the chat feature to inform the interviewer of any technical issues preventing you speaking/seeing them

Finally relax and smile! And good luck.

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