Due to the global COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing measures, many industries are hiring online. According to research in recent times many industries are hiring online and many 20% of Nigerian hiring managers do virtual Interveiws.

However, pitching yourself as a candidate via video conference can be just as daunting as interviewing face to face. If not more so! 

What is a Virtual Interview?

A virtual interview, or video interview, is a digital method that enables remote assessment and screening of candidates. They are often used as a first stage screening method, although their use accelerated as more firms went remote during 2020.

Sometimes they are conducted by telephone but they mostly take place using video conferencing software. Common platforms for remote interviews include Zoom, Microsoft Teams and interview.

Often, virtual interviewing will be conducted like a traditional interview. However, interviewing by video requires more thought about body language, facial expressions and non-verbal communication. These are harder to convey and interpret than during a face-to-face interview.

If you’ve got an online assessment coming up and want to make sure you leave a good first impression, read on. We’ve got plenty of virtual interview tips, from preparing your technology to communicating confidently. 

1. Test Your Technology

Technical skills are considered one of the top competencies employers look for in new hires, and hiring managers are able to gauge your abilities easily during a virtual interview.

Ensure to avoid potential technical glitches by testing your equipment before the call. If your video conferencing software produces grainy visuals or muffled audio, it might be time to invest in an external webcam or microphone. You should also secure your internet connection. Nothing stifles conversation quite like a call dropped mid-persuasion point.

2. Keep Your Virtual Identity Professional

Keeping thing simple is key in today’s digital world, your email address or username is often your first impression. Don’t give the hiring manager a reason to question your professionalism before they even meet you . Keep your email address and username simple and professional.

3. Dress for Success

Projecting professionalism goes beyond your email address and username, dressing also play an important role. Dress in a manner that would not divert the attention of your employer from your professional competence to your dress patterns. Ensure to use colors that would not be reactive to harsh light.

4. Create a Set

This goes to prove how organized you are so ensuring that the space is clean before embarking on a video call. Check out for lighting, if possible sit in front of a blank background so that you remain the focal point. Please ensure that  color of your backdrop does not contrast with your outfit

5. Monitor Your Body Language

Since you would be judge base on what you they see and what is said so ensure that your words are clear and understandable. Convey confidence through your body language; Sit up straight, smile, and keep the camera at eye level to avoid looking up or down. Research shows that employers are more likely to remember what you said if you maintain eye contact. Be sure to keep your eyes focused on the camera—not the screen image of the hiring manager—as you converse.

6. Rid Yourself of Distractions

Virtual interviews come with a slew of distractions you wouldn’t normally have to deal with when you travel into an employer’s office. Be sure to do what you can to eliminate these potential interruptions on your end prior to beginning the video call.

Turn off the TV, silence your cell phone, and close the window to muffle any external sound

Conclusion