In today’s virtual age, digital interviews conducted via telephone, video conferencing, and recorded video submissions are becoming more and more common. Too often, candidates find themselves unprepared or underequipped, not for the interview itself, but for the medium through which it takes place. Don’t let this happen to you! Nail your virtual interviews with these three strategies.
- Treat it like an in-person interview. Because you don’t have to actually travel for a virtual interview, it can be tempting to multi-task or take the interview on-the-go. However, being interrupted by other people, inclimate weather, or a basketball game (yes, that’s happened!) can signal to an interviewer that you’re not invested in the role or interview process or make it more difficult for them to hear and get to know you–both of which decrease your chances for moving forward in the interview process. Find someplace quiet, without a lot of background noise or music, to have your interview so that both you and your interviewer can focus on what you’re saying. If your interview is via video, wear something you feel would be appropriate for in-person interview (at least from the waist up!). Also, be aware of what your interviewer can see in the background of your video to make sure it’s not distracting or something you’re uncomfortable with him or her seeing.
- Smile! So much of our communication is nonverbal, and when you’re interviewing on the phone, all a hiring manager has to go on are your words and tone of voice. Studies have shown that people are actually able to hear a smile in your voice, even when they can’t hear you. It’s so important to bring your genuine, authentic self to all interviews, but especially virtual ones. Being candid yet professional is the way to go, and though your interviewer may not be able to read your body language, it very well still may have a beneficial impact.
- Get comfortable on video. In today’s digital age, video is where it’s at. While you may feel awkward, your ability to succeed in a video interview may come down to how comfortable you’re able to be in front of the camera. In preparation for a video interview, download a video messaging app or send short video messages to your friends and family to get more accustomed to communicating on video. That way, when it really counts, you’re ready to go!
Looking for a position in education? Reach out to the OneTeacher team and put your virtual interview skills to the test for one of our currently open roles!
