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Most of us are familiar with in-person interviews. In fact, if you’ve studied at an Indian university, you may have attended an interview for your first job placement! But now, organizations have begun to lean more and more towards online interviews as they allow for greater accessibility, have a wider reach and are more practical.
An online or virtual interview has its pros and cons. An online interview is a boon for those who tend to get nervous during physical, in-person interactions. In fact, if you prepare well in advance, you can use virtual interviews to your advantage.
From understanding the technical requirements to learning about proper virtual conduct, let’s look at some important tips for an online interview to help you land your dream job.
How To Prepare For An Online Interview
Many organizations prefer the online interview format because it’s time and cost-effective. Not only does it save time spent on meeting someone during a busy workday, but, with streamlined technology, it’s also easier and more manageable. Here are a few important tips for an online interview:
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Check Your Technology
One of the most important tips for a virtual interview is to test your technology in advance. This means checking that your internet connection, laptop or computer, microphone, speaker and headphones are functioning. You don’t want your laptop to run out of battery just when it’s time for your online interview. Avoid last-minute scrambling and make sure you charge your devices well in advance.
Additionally, if your interview is being hosted on an unfamiliar platform, such as BlueJeans or Zoom, go through the features beforehand to understand how they work.
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Be On Time
Candidates are usually assigned specific time slots for a virtual interview. You must be online a few minutes before the allotted time slot. Just like in an in-person interview, it won’t reflect well on your candidature if you’re late.
It could be a 10-minute or 20-minute interview. Utilize every minute to get your point across and make a lasting impression on the hiring manager.
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Use The PAM Framework
A virtual interview has a specific purpose—to deliver your message in the clearest way possible within the stipulated time frame. Use Harappa Education’s PAM (Purpose-Audience-Message) framework—part of the Speaking Effectively course—to understand what you have to say, to whom and why. It’s a great way to craft a clear and concise message.
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Pick Up On Nonverbal Cues
Meeting a hiring manager in person is very different from interacting with them through a computer screen. You can’t read much of their body language, which makes it hard to assess what they’re thinking. In such cases, nonverbal cues, such as facial expressions and posture, can give you an insight into the hiring manager’s mind. If they’re smiling, for instance, it probably means that you’re doing well!
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Pay Attention To Virtual Conduct
If you’re focusing on the hiring manager’s nonverbal cues, it’s equally important to pay attention to your own. Your facial expressions and posture will tell the interviewer how you’re feeling and if you’re keen on the job in question. Express your enthusiasm with not just your words, but with a smile and a nod. Show the hiring manager that you’re excited about the opportunity and ready for a challenge. Remember to make eye contact to show that you’re paying attention.
Conclusion
When it comes to an online interview, there are a few other things you have to keep in mind—where you’re sitting, if you look presentable on-screen and if your voice is audible. Preparing in advance is one of the most important tips for an online interview as it helps you to take care of these aspects. Also, anticipate questions, practice your answers and do a quick run-through of the software so that you’re not fumbling when the time comes.
It’s important to speak with confidence, clarity and brevity. Harappa Education’s Speaking Effectively course will teach you important ways to improve your communication skills. You’ll learn how to prepare for an interview—both in-person and online—by answering the most commonly asked interview questions. Master the art of verbal and nonverbal communication and ace your next online interview with the help of success frameworks and tools from our expert faculty!
Explore topics & skills such as Self-Introduction for Interview, Top 50 Interview Questions, Interview Skills, Tips for Interview & How to Crack Personal Interview from our Harappa Diaries section and ace your next online interview.
