A successful virtual (or phone) interview carries as much weight as an in-person interview. Without success in either one, you cannot move ahead in the interview process.
In any interview, you need to know what to expect and how to prepare for the interview discussion. Additionally, in a virtual phone or virtual interview, you need to know even more things.
- Setting up your location
- Things to have on your desk
- Preparing for interview discussion
- Chemistry: Creating a Professional Connection
Setting Up Your Location
Before the meeting, prepare as though someone is coming to meet you in your office.
Select your interview place carefully. Pick a quiet room. Have a glass of water handy. Pick a comfortable chair.
Test your equipment beforehand. Restart your digital device. Open your virtual application. Allow enough time for your device and application to install updates.
Things on Your Desk
Having these items on your desk will help you hit the key points you want to make.
- A statement of your objectives for the meeting
- Any correspondence or research you have that relates to the company
- A list of key points you wish to make
- A list of questions
- Your resume
- The job description
Preparing for Interview Discussion
In any interview, you need to prepare to discuss these topics.
- Your accomplishments as a student and your accomplishments in any jobs that you have held
- Everything you can learn about the hiring company: address, industry, leadership, type of company (sole proprietorship, partnership, corporation)
- The match between your skills and the required job qualifications
- Specifics of why you are applying for the job
- Your job status (employed, unemployed)
Chemistry: Creating a Professional Connection
The following actions help you project energy, a winning attitude, and a positive personality.
Even if you are uncertain whether you want the job before you get the call, make sure that you do the best job you can. After all, you’ve already invested time applying for the job. You have filled out an application. You may have completed a web-based questionnaire.
Remember to take a quiet deep breath from time to time. Say positive things about yourself and about the other people on the call. Smile. You will project warmth even though the interviewer cannot see you.
Even if you are on the phone, you can let your personality shine. Smile. Stay positive. You will project warmth whether the other people can see you or not.
Ask questions to keep interviewers involved.
Allow the interviewer a chance to speak.
Listen to the questions. Make sure you understand the questions before you answer them. Make your answers detailed but to the point.
Emphasize that you are interested in going forward with the opportunity.
Set your phone to mute. If you are in a phone interview or virtual interview, you don’t need the distractions of your phone buzzing or ringing.
Make sure that people around you know not to disturb you.
Certainly, do not multitask.
Wear professional attire.
Do a trial close questions: for example, ask the interviewer when the company will decide.
Remember to close the interview on an upbeat note. Thank the interviewer for taking time to speak with you. Emphasize that you hope to have a chance to speak again.
Assume Nothing
Moreover, assume nothing. The people conducting the interview play a real role in your getting a job with the company. Even if you never speak with that person again, you can’t get an in-person meeting without their recommendation. Furthermore, the person may be someone who will be involved with you throughout your career with the hiring company. Getting off on the right foot may pay huge dividends you can’t anticipate.
Don’t Make These Mistakes
Don’t fake your answers. If you do not know that answer to a question, just say so. Don’t try to tell a joke. Don’t allow interruptions. They distract the people in the interview.
