In the recent scenario various multi-national corporations are adopting the practice of conducting ‘Virtual Interviews’ which not only helps them save time but also helps them save resources. This method of interviewing allows the company as well as the candidate to interact using web conferencing software or some instant messaging programs. But this process of virtual interview presents numerous challenges for the interviewee. Being in a face to face interaction, one is able to present themselves in a better manner and also the companies are able to carry out a detailed personality assessment, which cannot happen in case of a virtual interview. Also, for some people this system is completely new and all the traditional tips of acing a face to face interview, such as maintaining a solid eye contact, fail during a virtual interview. Lets go throught tips which can help one in acing a virtual interview.
1. Be All Prepared –Half an hour before the scheduled time make it sure that you have all your devices and gadgets in order. Check your computer’s inbuilt microphone and webcam,ensure that sufficient lighting is present in the room and your video is clear and correct. This small preparation will go a long way to prevent any glitches during the interview.
2. Scan your surroundings- While appearing for a virtual interview make sure that you either have a blank background or else you have something that depicts your professional nature as well as behavior. A messed up or noisy background will only portray a negative image.
3. Dress Up Professionally-Do not take things easy just because you have been given the liberty to interview from the comfort of your home. Dress the same way you would dress for a face to face interview so that you look professional. Do not wear in-formals. Sport a clean look and haircut.
4. Have a Proper Eye Contact-Many may miss this , but yes you ought to maintain eye contact with the interviewer for longer than you would in a face-to-face situation. Do not look into the eyes of the interviewer instead try to look into the camera lens You can practice this aspect in advance with your friends or family.
5. Have a Confident Posture at all times-During your virtual interview make sure that you establish a bond with the interviewer through your positive body language as well as facial expressions. Try to fit in your head and shoulders in the camera view. Sit straight and relaxed and speak while leaning forward as this gives an impression of you being interested in the conversation. Make sure that there is always a smile on your face and do not look here and there during the complete interview session.
6. Practice the Virtual Handshake– During a virtual handshake, you don’t need to wave at the interviewer. Instead, you need to nod a 10 degree forward in the interviewer’s direction. You might think of this as a modified version of Japanese bow, but it, in reality, is a warm, professional gesture. As soon as you see the video of the interviewer before striking a conversation greet him with this virtual handshake.
7. Respond, Do Not React-Virtual interviews are one of the best mediums to test a candidate’s composure and calmness, especially the ones where you need to answer questions randomly thrown by software with a time limit in which you have to answer. Do not panic, think and answer. Don’t be over eager to reply ,take time and then respond in the best possible manner. Think and speak.
8.Be Authentic-Do not manipulate during the interview. Be honest and showcase your real personality. Faking your self during the process will only create future issues for you ,if you get selected. Do not compromise on your integrity.