Three Tips to Help You Ace Your Next Virtual Job Interview

May 18, 2020

We are happy to report some positive economic news. More and more companies are re-engaging us to assist with filling positions. Our clients are hiring more now compared to just a month ago. This is a great indicator of how the next few months will go if we continue to progress.

Whether you're unemployed or looking to make a career transition, our expert search professionals have helped to compile a few tips that will help you put your best foot forward at your next virtual interview. Boost your virtual interview skills and overcome the unique video interview challenges so you can get back to work.

1. Plan and prepare for an "if things go wrong" scenario.

Preparation is the key to increase your chances for an impressive and memorable interview. Don't let technology issues stand between you and your next opportunity! Make sure you have charged your technology and tested your network. Prior to your scheduled time, ensure that you have an alternative form of communication in case a technology issue arises. If you are using your laptop, make sure your cell phone is on silent. If you are using your cell to take the interview, make sure you stabilize your device for fewer distractions.

If possible, secure a quite location with a simple background and good lighting. Practice with different locations around the house prior to know what works best. If you have children, we recommend to be completely transparent at the beginning of the interview. Let the manager know that there may be some light background noise. If a noise interruption does happen, we recommend that you apologize to the interviewer and mute your microphone to quickly take care of the situation.

2. Have two or three stories ready.

Strong work stories that show the value you've brought to previous employers in the past are good indicators of how you may bring value to their company. Prepare 2-3 work stories about how you improved a process, saved the company money, added value, affected the bottom line, or overcame an obstacle. How you communicate these stories with the manager will also give him or her an insight into how you work and the environments you've worked in before. Using the STAR method when telling stories will give you a structured manner of responding to a behavioral-based interview question. By discussing the specific situation, task, action, and result of the situation you are describing, you will give a very thorough explanation and demonstrate your communication skills.

3. Treat your digital interview like an in-person interview.

Stand out by treating your digital interview just the same as an in-person interview. Be punctual, dress for success (top and bottom), build rapport, and be authentic. Practice keeping your eyes on the camera and smiling. It's important to feel comfortable maintaining natural eye contact and proper body language. These non-verbal cues will help the interviewer gauge your interest in the interview and ultimately the role. Have your resume pulled up and ready to email, if needed.

Our team suggests having your prepared questions and take any notes by hand so that you can still remain present in the interview without having to quickly change between screens on your desktop. As always, it's important to follow up. Send a thank you note to the manager to let them know you appreciated their time and are very interested in joining the team.

Ultimately, as a job seeker the goal of the interview - virtual or not - should be to build a connection and share your interest, technical knowledge and application.

Please direct any interview questions to clientservices@accountantsone.com.