As hiring goes online, so does the interview

It is therefore critical to be mindful of the following.

As hiring goes online, so does the interview
As hiring goes online, so does the interview

One is usually on edge when it comes to giving job interviews; even the most confident of people find such a situation daunting. While the pressure to impress can be overwhelming, it is essential to realize that there are various areas one can work on that can help ace any interview. Apart from gauging if one fits the profile from a technical or skills standpoint, interviewers are also trying to ascertain if the candidate is confident and will fit in with their team and the overall organizational culture.

While the specifics may vary from company to company, some basic parameters that can help with any recruitment process are simple to follow. In the present circumstances, as HR processes, including interviews, are migrating online, it is vital to prepare for the same keeping in mind the element of a remote or virtual meeting.

  1. Punctuality: While it is essential to be on time for interviews, it is advisable to log in to an online interview 5-10 minutes before the scheduled time. It not only portrays a diligent attitude to the interviewer but also gives one enough time to calm oneself and prepare for the meeting.
  2. Dress to impress: Despite the virtual nature of the interview, clothes are an essential part of how one is perceived; dress contributes directly to making an excellent first impression. The safest approach is to stick to semi-formal clothing, minimal accessories, well-combed hair and a visible face.
  3. Webcam positioning: While one’s attire forms the foundation of a first impression, the second task is to ensure that one’s laptop camera, smartphone or tablet is positioned correctly during the interview to ensure minimal disturbance and a professional set-up. It is of utmost importance to ensure that one is comfortably seated at a desk or table with one’s device firmly placed in front. One can position oneself in the middle of the frame but maintain an arm’s length distance between oneself and the screen. Also, test the webcam a few times before the interview to ensure there are no technical faults or glitches with the audio and microphone.
  4. Body language: The universal greeting for a business meeting is often the handshake, which proves to be impossible during a virtual interview thus leaving candidates with basic body language cues to maintain a respectful and confident demeanour. Try not to hunch or recline backwards. The ideal sitting position is to sit upright and make eye contact with the interviewer; it shows confidence.
  5. Background etiquette: It is advisable to ensure that the background surroundings during a video interview are neat and minimal. Congested, jarring walls or untidy backgrounds give off the impression that you are disorderly and messy. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that one is receiving the interview in a quiet room with minimal noise as it could pose as a hindrance to the conversation. Similarly, a well-lit room will go a long way in creating a professional environment during the interview, allowing the panel to see and assess the candidate.
  6. Know your recruiter: A general rule of thumb is to remember the name of the recruiter and address them appropriately when introduced. Go through their professional journey (if available) on LinkedIn as it could yield some topics of common interest that can be used to create casual conversation during the meeting. It helps make the interaction more personable.
  7. Avoid oversharing: While it is essential to build rapport, always keep the conversation civil and professional. Never speak against your current or previous job, colleagues or superiors. Maintain positivity and focus on your work, professional goals and aspirations.

Pro Tip - Send a thank you note in the form of a text message or email the next day to the interviewer.

Like most things, practice makes better, and doing well at interviews is the same. Practice giving them with friends, family and professional mentors.

Authored by Abhimanyu Saxena, Co-Founder, InterviewBit & Scaler Academy

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