The Covid-19 Pandemic brought a lot of changes to the world, and some of those changes are here to stay. Thousands of employees had to switch to working from home during this time, and there are many who still are. In fact, working isn’t the only thing people are doing from home now. Over the course of the pandemic, virtual interviews gained in popularity. These types of interviews can be over the phone but usually utilize technology like video conferencing.
Virtual interviews can be just as nerve wracking as face-to-face ones. Similar to in-person interviews, there are certain steps you should take to prepare. Luckily, we’ve gathered some tips to you can nail your next virtual interview.
1) Test Technology Beforehand
We’ve all experienced technical difficulties of some kind or another. They’re the worst! But they can be especially frustrating when you’re preparing for your virtual interview. The basic setup for a virtual interview requires a reliable internet connection, a camera, microphone, and some sort of video conferencing software like Zoom or Microsoft Teams.
Your laptop may already come equipped with the camera and microphone. It is important to test them well before your scheduled interview. If the video is too grainy or the microphone is causing an echo, you’ll need time to purchase an external webcam and/or microphone you can attach to your computer. Even if you’ve tested your technology well beforehand, it is important to give it all a last check the day of.
2) Set Up Your Space
Setting up your space is one of the most important things you can do in preparation for your virtual interview. No matter where you decide to set up in your home, you want to minimize distractions. This means things that may distract you, but also things that may distract your interviewer. You want the space behind and around you to be as un-cluttered as possible. It can be hard to convince a potential employer that you are detail oriented and organized when they can see your dirty laundry behind you.
Along with making sure your space is clean and tidy, you’ll also want to turn off the TV and silence your phone and any other electronic devices. It can also be a good idea to turn off any noisy fans and make sure your windows are closed to limit street noise.
Lighting is another key part of a virtual interview. You do not want to be sitting in the shadows, nor do you want light that is so bright it distorts your features. Make sure to play around with artificial and natural light before your interview to get it just right.
3) Practice, practice, practice
When it comes time for your virtual interview, you don’t want to sound too rehearsed. However, it is a good idea to practice. Whether you’re doing it in front of the mirror or with a family member or friend, practice your answers to some of the most common interview questions.
Because it can be difficult to effectively communicate over video the same way you would in person, you want to make sure to also practice your body language. Although you may be tempted to stair at your computer screen for the entire interview because that’s where the image of the interviewer is, to properly maintain eye contact, you’ll want to be looking into your camera. It’s also important that you sit up straight and smile. No one wants to hire someone that looks miserable throughout their interview.
4) Dress the Part
Just because you’re at home, or you reason to yourself that they’ll only see you from the waist up, you may be tempted to dress a bit too casually. Treat your virtual interview the same way you would an in-person one. This means appropriate attire from head to toe. Studies show that people feel “most authoritative, trustworthy, and competent when wearing formal business attire.” These qualities will help you nail your next interview, whether virtual or in person. Your pajama pants may be more comfortable, but the extra boost in confidence formal business attire gives you may be what gets you the job.
5) Be Prepared
Your interview will be conducted right on your computer, and this may tempt you to utilize it during the process. You may think you’ll be able to search the web for answers mid-interview. However, you want to appear focused and prepared. This means no clicking around or typing. Instead, before your interview, make sure to do your research. Look up the company, jot down notes, and have your resume printed out and on hand so you don’t forget any key talking points. You’ll also want to be prepared to ask questions about the company or position you’re interviewing for.
6) Be Yourself
One of the biggest things a potential employer will be trying to determine during your interview is if you will be a good fit for the company. Because there is often a physical disconnect over a video call, you’ll want to make sure you are as expressive as possible. You want to effectively communicate your enthusiasm and express yourself authentically to show the interviewer your personality.
7) Follow Up
After the interview, the follow up in the most important thing you can do. Especially for large aviation companies who may be interviewing multiple people a day, you want to make sure you stand out. Send a follow-up email within 24 hours of the interview. Thank them for their time, let them know you are available for additional questions. You’ll also want to make sure that they know that you are both interested and excited at the prospect of joining their team.
If you are currently searching for a job as an aviation maintenance technician, NCI can help! And if you’re looking for a career change and want to learn more about aviation maintenance, contact NCI today!
