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Recruiters and hiring managers continue to evolve interview techniques to keep up with new technologies. Even before the coronavirus pandemic kept many of us at home, many companies were replacing inperson interviews with virtual interviews. It’s important for candidates to stay up to date on the latest trends and best practices, and the following tips can help you to ace these virtual conversations.

1. Find a quiet room

Locate a quiet, well-lit place free from possible interruptions. Consider setting up in a room separate from the main living space, and lock the door and alert others in your home that you can’t be disturbed.

2. Test your equipment beforehand

Although internet disruptions can be unpredictable, try to ensure your internet connection is stable. You can use Google to search methods for testing your connection. Your internet provider might offer its own test, so you may wish to check your provider’s homepage as well. Also test and confirm that your computer’s audio is stable. Use your computer’s microphone or use headphones with a built-in microphone. Some video conferencing software systems will include a number to dial in from your mobile phone, but your computer’s audio typically provides the best sound quality. Ask a friend or family member to test the sound with you prior to an interview. By doing this, you can ensure your voice volume and sound quality are clear and easy to hear. Finally, test your computer’s webcam. Practice sitting up, leaning in and looking at the camera (not at yourself) during your interview. Confirm that your computer’s camera has a well-centered shot of your head, shoulders and hands. It’s best not to use a smartphone or tablet for this. Practice active listening when the interviewer is talking. Make sure to nod and smile to show that you are engaged. If you are interviewing with multiple people, check the video interview application for a “Gallery View” so you can see all interview participants at once.

3. Check your background

In a virtual interview at your home, the interviewer will get a glimpse of your personal life, home décor and more. Your background will be part of the interviewer’s first impression. Consider what will be viewable behind you, including potential clutter or a mess. If you are unsure what an interviewer will be able to see in your home, test the camera frame with a friend before the interview.

4. Eliminate all sources of distraction

Clear the desk space of everything but a notepad, a pen or pencil to take notes, a copy of the job description and a copy of your résumé. If you have additional items on your desk, they could be a distraction during the interview. It’s best to limit the items on your desk to materials you will reference during your conversation with the interviewer.

Close any unnecessary web browser tabs and applications. Again, any additional distractions could take your attention away from the interview and cause you to lose focus. Don’t risk it. Change other notifications to “do not disturb” and close out applications that aren’t relevant to the conversation. If your phone is near, place it on silent or do-notdisturb mode — or just turn your phone off and put it away to avoid any unexpected ringing or notifications. If you absolutely must have it on for emergencies, silent mode is best.

5. Dress professionally

Although you are likely interviewing virtually from the comfort of your home, you must dress to impress just as you would for an in-person interview — such as a button-down shirt and jacket for men and a blouse and blazer for women — unless otherwise noted from the interviewer. Additionally, dress professionally from head to toe – you never know when you might have to stand up in the camera’s frame. Last, bright colors can be distracting on camera, so wear neutral-colored clothing.

6. Reiterate your interest at closing

At the conclusion of the interview, ask if there is any other information they need from you to understand your experience and qualifications. If it feels like a potential match from your perspective, make sure to show your interest by reiterating that you want the job and would like to move to the next step in the process.

7. Follow up with a thank-you note

If you don’t already have your interviewer’s contact information, ask for an email or street address to send a thank-you message. Handwritten cards are typically preferred, but sending a personalized email that thanks the interviewer and reiterates interest is perfectly acceptable, too. Virtual conversations are becoming a normal part of the interview process, and following these tips can help you ace them — and perhaps even land your dream job.

Miranda Weber is business operations analyst for Baker Tilly Search & Staffing LLC in Madison. Contact her at 608-316-1324 or miranda.weber@bakertilly.com. Victoria Ziemek is staffing manager for Baker Tilly Search & Staffing. Contact her at 608-240-2577 or victoria.ziemek@bakertilly.com.

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