Being Successful in Interviews

1. Prepare Thoroughly

• Research the Company: Understand their mission, values, and recent developments. Tailor your responses to show genuine interest and knowledge about the company.
• Know the Role: Review the job description and requirements. Prepare to discuss how your background and skills match the role.
• Practice Common Questions: Rehearse answers to common interview questions and prepare specific examples to illustrate your skills and experiences.

2. Set Up Your Virtual Environment

• Choose a Professional Background: Select a clean, uncluttered background or use a professional virtual background if necessary.
• Ensure Good Lighting: Position yourself in a well-lit area. Natural light is best, but if that’s not possible, use a lamp or ring light to ensure your face is clearly visible.
• Reduce Background Noise: Set yourself up in a quiet are with minimal background noise.  Apologise for any background noise and turn off your microphone when listening.
• Test Your Technology: Make sure your internet connection is stable and test your camera and microphone ahead of time. Ensure your software (Zoom, Teams, etc.) is updated.

3. Present Yourself Professionally

• Dress Appropriately: Wear professional attire as you would for an in-person interview. Even though it’s virtual, dressing well helps create a good impression.
• Use a Clear, Confident Voice: Without body language your voice is your most important tool. Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Avoid speaking too quickly or mumbling.  Use expression in your voice to demonstrate enthusiasm and energy.

4. Highlight Your Unique Value

• Showcase Achievements: Use specific examples from your past work that align with the job requirements.
• Tailor Your Responses: Relate your answers to the company’s needs and the specific role. Emphasise how you can contribute to their goals or address their challenges.

5. Engage with the Interviewer

• Maintain Eye Contact: Look at the camera when speaking, not the screen, to simulate eye contact and show engagement.
• Use Non-Verbal Cues: Nod and use facial expressions to convey understanding and enthusiasm. This can help make the conversation more dynamic.

6. Handle Technical Issues Gracefully

• Be Prepared for Glitches: Have a backup plan in case of technical difficulties (e.g., provide an alternate contact method). Stay calm and address any issues professionally.
• Reconnect if Needed: If there are significant technical problems, politely suggest reconnecting if the connection drops.

7. Ask Insightful Questions

• Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Ask questions about the team, company culture, or upcoming projects to demonstrate your interest and engagement.
• Show Active Listening: Reference points mentioned during the interview in your questions or responses to show you’re engaged and paying attention.

8. Follow Up

• Send a Thank-You Email: After the interview, send a thank-you email reiterating your interest in the position and briefly highlighting why you’re a great fit. Mention something specific from the interview to personalise your note.

Bonus Tip: Practice for the Virtual Format

• Rehearse with Technology: Conduct mock interviews using the same platform and setup as your actual interview. This helps you get comfortable with the format and troubleshoot any potential issues.