Preparing for a Virtual Interview

  • Carefully choose your location and check connection.
  • Find a quiet, private, well-lit place, free from possible interruptions.
  • Make sure that the background is professional and not messy. Sometimes a plain wall is the best option. Try not to sit with your back toward a window, it makes it very hard to see you.
  • We recommend you use a hard surface like a table or desk. Do not conduct a video interview from your sofa or bed.
  • Ensure your internet connection is stable.
  • Check that your computer’s audio is working.
  • Test your computer’s webcam.
  • Close any unnecessary web browser tabs and applications. Mute any notifications that may distraction you.
  • Angle camera squarely. Camera shot should be straight on or slightly down. The least flattering angle is a camera pointing up at you. (ProTip: You can prop your laptop up on some books to get a better angle.)
  • Sit at an appropriate distance from the camera. They want to see your face, but they don’t want to ONLY see your face. Think of a headshot: top of your shoulders, all of your head, and a bit of background.
  • Have in front of you: notes, job description, résumé, pen/paper to take notes, prepared questions for company, and a small glass of water. Be sure to not read your notes aloud as the answer!
  • Charge your laptop. Make sure your charge is full.
  • Dress professionally from head to toe as you might have to stand up during the interview.
  • Double-check time zones. Ensure that you are planning for the correct time.

Preparing for a Phone Interview

  • Check cell reception. Before interview, make sure that the connection will be clear.
  • Charge your phone. Make sure that you have a full battery.
  • Wear interview attire. It will make you feel more professional and focused.
  • Sit at a desk or stand. Sitting at a desk will help you feel more professional. Standing will help you project your voice better.
  • Answer the phone with enthusiasm and your name, such as, “Hello! This is Jennifer.”
  • Smile as you answer questions. It makes a difference in your voice.
  • Sound interested. Your tone of voice is the only nonverbal cue that the employer has to assess you on the phone. Use voice changes to show interest and enthusiasm.

During the Interview

  • Sit up straight. Pick a chair that does not rock or swivel. Try not to move around too much; the video gets “fuzzy” for the interviewer if you do.
  • Don’t stare at yourself. Look into camera or at interviewer. (ProTip: Use a sticky note to cover your picture.)
  • Speak clearly. If you are concerned that they are not hearing you, simply ask if they heard you.
  • Ask for clarification. If you don’t hear or understand something the interviewer says, feel free to ask them to repeat it.
  • Convey warmth and personality. Try to be as relaxed as possible but remain professional.
  • Follow the interviewer’s lead in conversation. Try not to talk when the interviewer is talking. Pause a few seconds after the interviewer stops speaking to make sure (s)he is finished. (ProTip: Occasionally talking at the same time is a normal hiccup with this type of interviewing. If that happens, simply apologize and let the conversation move on.)
  • Remain professional. Never chew gum, eat, take another call, or text during.