Virtual interviews: 5 tips for excelling through the screen

By Nicole Garcia, Traphagen CPAs & Wealth Advisors

Job interviews can be intimidating, but virtual interviews can be even more so. Many employers have transitioned to virtual recruiting and interviewing. While this has benefits for both parties, it opens the door to some possible challenges. You should enter a virtual interview with the same mentality as you would for an in-person interview.

Choose an appropriate workspace

Making a good first impression is essential when interviewing virtually.

• Ensure the area you’ll be in during the interview has appropriate lighting and is clean, quiet and free from distractions.

• No loud pictures or wall art, piles of papers, open windows or distracting noises.

• If you don’t have an appropriate workspace at home, try a local library, university or communal workspace that offers private spaces.

Test all electronics

One of the added components of a virtual interview is making sure all your electronic devices are working properly.

• Make sure your speakers, microphone, camera and computer are working the day before as well as a few hours before the interview.

• Be familiar with the video software and have an account set up.

• Ensure access to reliable WiFi.

• Don’t rely on your laptop’s battery power; use a power cord.

Dress to impress

Although the interviewer may only see you from your chest up, it is important to dress professionally from head to toe. Dress as if you were going to an in-person interview. Presenting yourself in a polished and professional manner will not only project a business intent but will also help you feel more confident.

Present yourself as you would in person

Sometimes maintaining professional mannerisms and body language can be difficult in the comfort of your own home. However, maintaining good posture and eye contact with the camera shows the interviewer that you are giving them your undivided attention and fosters a better connection. Give a slight head nod or ask clarifying questions to reassure the interviewer that you are engaged.

Be prepared

Log into the meeting at least 10 minutes early. Prior to the interview, spend some time researching the company, their values, their culture and their leadership team. In addition, be prepared with questions for the interviewer; this is your time to truly learn about the position and their expectations and show you are interested and enthusiastic about their company.

Reprinted with permission of the New Jersey Society of CPAs, njcpa.org

Nicole Garcia is an accountant at Traphagen CPAs & Wealth Advisors.