Tips for Online Interview: In-depth Guide

Tips for Online Interview

In this article, we have covered detailed tips for online interview and what to do before and after an online video interview.

We have divided this part into three different sections. Each of them is important. So, I'll suggest you go through each section one by one:


Before Interview

Use Best Hardware

If you are using multiple devices then select the one which is the fastest and latest. For most, a laptop will be the best option. If you don't have so many devices, invest in purchasing or borrowing one.

Check Setup

Test your hardware setup and learn how it works. While preparing for an online interview, you need to be sure to test the following components of your hardware setup, system, or device:

Audio Settings- There are two components to test- a microphone and speakers. Make sure the other person (Receiver) can properly hear your voice while chatting over the video call. Also, check the coming sound through speakers. The sound should be loud and clear so that you can properly understand what your interviews are saying.

Camera Settings- Adjust your camera settings so that it won't mess up with the clarity of your picture. It should not be too dark or too bright. It is better to remove distracting elements from the background. It is recommended to sit in front of a window having day-light and a solid-colored wall in the background (back-side). This will make the interviewer's focus on you and not the distracting elements behind you.

Internet Settings- This thing is often ignored. But, it is one of the most important components for doing a video chat. It is best to plugin with an Ethernet connection for a stable connection. Video chatting or conferencing usually takes a lot of bandwidth, so, choose a better internet plan according to that and test it properly.

Choose Right Area

You must choose the right area for your interview. The ideal place for an interview is a quiet room where you will not be disturbed or distracted by people, pets, etc. Lighting is also important, so make sure you have enough light inside a room. Avoid being near windows against busy streets, and make sure children or pets are being supervised if any.

Practice with Mock Interview

The best practice is to plan a mock interview with a friend or family member at the same time that you are going to do the interview. If possible, record the interview from both sides so that you can check it back for yourself. Also, ask your friend, or a family member for honest feedback, so that you know if you are seen and heard adequately, how you look on camera, how the lighting is, and whether you are a professional, Enthusiastic and interested.

Keep Backup Plan Ready

With technology, there is always a possibility that there might be an unexpected error. Therefore, keep your backup plan ready in case something goes wrong during the interview. Here are some suggestions and tips to follow if things go wrong:

If your audio or video stops working- Before the interview, ask the interviewer for a contact number where you can reach them in case of connectivity issues. If you face technical difficulties, such as a video cut out or sound drop, etc., call that number and ask the interviewer if the interview can be continued on a phone call or rescheduled.

If someone enters the room unexpectedly- If a family member, a friend, or a pet suddenly enters the room during the interview, apologize to the interviewer. Also, ask your interviewer for a moment to deal with the interruption. Mute your microphone, and step away to fix the issue. Make sure you close the door or secure your place from any other interruption before starting the interview again.

If noise interrupts the conversation- If your interview is interrupted by noise such as sirens, construction, frequent sounds from the pet, etc., apologize for the interruption. Ask your interviewer for a few moments until the noise subsides. If the noise is severe, it is better to mute the mic.

Research

In addition to location setup and device setup, you should research company details. Prepare the most frequently asked interview questions, set out some specific questions you want to ask, and choose the best outfit that makes a professional impression on the interviewer.


Day of the Interview

Test Again

Re-test all equipment at least one hour before the interview time, so that you are sure that everything is working as planned.  And then do another run-through about 30 minutes before your interview.

Dress Professionally

Dress for an online interview in the same way that you come for an in-person interview. Even if you are sitting down, you should also wear pants or a skirt and shoes. Because you will never know about the situations when you have to stand up. Be simple, avoid bright colors and ornaments, etc., which is remarkable. By following this, you make sure that your interviewer focuses on you and not your distracting outfit.

Manage Distraction

Close all other applications or browser’s tabs that might interrupt the interview. Put your phone on silent mode. Tell your family members not to disturb you for that specific time. Ensure that children and pets are being supervised during the interview. 

Look into Eyes

Sit up straight and maintain good eye contact as these are important in an interview; either this is an in-person interview or an online video interview. Avoid looking at the screen while replying. Instead, look at the webcam as often as possible when you are replying. This will help you maintain good eye contact; your eyes are likely to align with the interviewer's eye on the other side. While you're listening, you can look back at the computer screen.

Speak Slowly and Clearly

Speak clearly in a conversational voice, just like you would in an in-person interview. Before you start answering, take a few seconds so that you don't end up talking over the interviewer in case of weak signals. Eliminate "ums" and "uhs" while answering, and avoid grammatical mistakes. Keep your answers short and up to the point. The interviewer can always ask for more information.

Listen Carefully

Listen carefully and thoroughly before answering. If you can't hear anything, ask your interviewer to repeat the question, rather than answer it incorrectly. Nod and smile while you are listening, it will make a good impression because the interviewer will notice that you are engaged and focused.

Body Language

Body language is very important during an interview because it can reveal most things about who you are as a person. To present a positive image, sit upright in a chair, place your feet on the ground, and place your hands on your lap or the desk. Eliminate doing things like slouching or holding your head up with your hand because they are much more noticeable during the online interviews.

Avoid Notes

Unlike other interviews, you can have some notes in front of you (off-camera) during an online interview. But it is advisable not to rely on notes because you do not want to look down again and again. This will distract your concentration and leave a negative impact on the other side as well. 


After Interview

Write a Thank-you Note

Just as with an in-person interview, you should conclude by thanking the interviewer for the valuable time. You can send a thank you email later that day. This will help you build a stronger relationship with the interviewer and will also help you progress to the next stage.

Follow-up on Progress

To express your interest in the job, you should occasionally follow your interview. Send a follow-up email and get in touch with the interviewer. 

Note: If you have already got a date for the result, do not reach out before that date. Wait for the appropriate time period to pass and only then follow up with the interviewer.

Summary

If you are uncomfortable with an online interview or how you look/sound on camera, you can practice it. The more you practice, the more comfortable you will be with the technique. This will help you build your confidence and succeed. 


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