Virtual interviews are becoming more and more commonplace in the world of business as the talent pool goes global. It is a helpful arrangement when hiring remote employees or offshore employees. While the purpose of the interview remains to determine your value as an employee and establish your personality, a remote interview has its own distinct elements that need to be considered. A candidate needs to be prepared not only for the employer’s questions, but also other aspects of the video interview that reflect on the candidate in one way or the other.
Interviews can be stressful, whether in-person or virtual. In an effort to ensure everything goes right, you might be overlooking a few common things that may inadvertently end up costing you your job. If you are new to virtual interviews or have had bad experiences with it, here we share with you a few common virtual interview mistakes to avoid.
Showing up late
Will you turn up late at your in-person interview with your potential employers? We’re guessing no. Well, a virtual interview is no different. It is still an interview with your potential employers, only you are expected to do it over a video call. Turning up late for your virtual interview is looked down upon all the same. You do not want your interviewers to have to wait for you, however short the wait might be. You have already started off your interview on the wrong foot. Be ready and on your desk well in advance of your interview’s expected commencement. Ensure that your computer system is turned on and connected to a working internet so you avoid any last minute delays.
Poor body posture
A good employee is not necessarily a person who has great knowledge and exceptional skills. While educational qualifications and talent are certainly the priority when hiring employees, it is not the only aspect a company is focusing on. They want employees who are confident and driven. One of the ways an employer gains insight into a candidate’s personality is through their posture. You want to appear self-assured to your interviewers. So, avoid slouching when sitting for your virtual interview. But don’t be too rigid either. Assume a relaxed position, where you are sitting straight but not with too much tension in your body. Avoid fidgeting or moving your hands too much. Your body posture is a reflection of your personality and your interviewers are likely to pay attention to it during your virtual interview.
Looking at the screen
During an in-person interview, candidates look at their interviewers when answering their questions. Maintaining eye contact during a conversation is important as it lets the other person know you are attentive. But it is easy to lose focus during a remote interview and look at your interviewers on the screen, or even at yourself when talking to them. Don’t make this simple virtual interview mistake. Avoid looking at the screen during your remote interview. Instead, look directly at the webcam, especially when you are answering any questions. This way the interviewers can see you looking at them directly and maintain eye-contact, instead of watching your eyes wander at the screen.
Having distractions around
In-person interview environment is not controlled by you. You are expected to show up at a designated venue and shown to a room where you are interviewed. But the place you choose to set up your virtual interview is in your hands. Select it wisely. You need to be focused and alert during your interview. It doesn’t help if there are noises around that keep distracting you. It also includes keeping your phone on silent mode so any calls or messages do not disturb you. Select a quiet place where you will not be interrupted by other people or distracted by random noises. But even if you do encounter some unexpected interruption, do not be alarmed. There is only so much you can control, and the employers understand that.
Not testing the technology
You might be familiar with your computer system and interview tools, but you still need to perform an equipment check prior to your interview. It eliminates any unnecessary delays or poor connection. Prior to the interview ensure that your laptop or computer is charged and functioning properly. Make sure the interview software is installed and logged in. Your webcam and microphone should be working. Lastly, your computer should be well-connected to the internet. Poor connectivity can severely botch up your virtual interview. Run the video call tool once so you know there are no issues. So, have your technology prepared and ready to go when the interview time approaches.
These are small things but can have an impact on your interview and the subsequent results. By avoiding these common virtual interview mistakes, you are a step closer to landing your dream job.
