13 Steps to Nailing a Virtual Interview

In the current climate, our work life has suddenly changed. Accordingly, so has the way we interview. As we move to interacting more by video, I’ve compiled advice based upon The Comeford Method for having a successful virtual interview.

1. Noise Level: Find a quiet spot with minimal (or no) background noise. Turn off your TV, notifications and text messages. Make sure the kids and any pets are elsewhere. Double check that your phone, tablet and computer are on silent. While I don't recommend a public space, if you have to be in one, headphones are a must.

2. Lighting: Make sure your space is well-lit, since back-lighting will make you appear as a silhouette. Do not do it front of a window!

3. Visuals: You want an area with minimal visual distractions, which includes surrounding décor. Organize your desktop and any place that may appear onscreen.

4. Speak up and demonstrate excitement: One of the biggest mistakes we hear from clients is that candidates don't speak up. Often times they mumble and are flat sounding. Some people find it effective to get exercise before starting - heck, even jumping jacks will do.  The key is to get pumped up. It's also remember to be mindful of the lag time. Take a pause between questions and answers, as it can be difficult over video to be clear on who is speaking.

5. Sit up Straight: It makes a world of difference. It can make you look 5-10 years younger. I recommend sitting on a chair, not a couch. You will feel and look more professional and alert as well.

6. Dress: Wear the same outfit as you would for an in-person interview. Don't just dress from the waist up; you never know what might happen. We've had clients that dropped their computer or tablet and the jig was up. Remember to smile on occasion and maintain the same body language even though you might be sitting in a chair. 

7. Your Linked-In: Most interviewers will go to your Linked-In a few days or the day of to review your background. Make sure it is accurate, sells you, is consistent with your resume and professional looking.

8. Internet Platforms. Test out the platform and any equipment you’ll be using before the interview. Make sure both your video and audio work!  After all, you want to demonstrate your technology skills effectively.

9. Internet Connection: You’ll want to make sure you have a strong internet connection and that you’ve downloaded all necessary plug-ins. Getting close to your router can help tremendously.

10. Your Materials: Have electronic copies of your materials ready to be sent, be they resumes, cover letters, reference sheets, or writing samples.

11. Ask well-thought out questions demonstrating your research: Have your list of questions ready ahead of time. You want to do so in order to be able to truly listen in the interview. Ask specifically about the company culture such as: 

"What makes a person successful (or not) in your organization?" ( A rare question).

" You mentioned xyz, might you elaborate on that?" (Demonstrates listening). 

" What concerns might you have about my candidacy?" (They'll be blown away by that one).

"I saw in your annual report/material/LinkedIn ....". (Shows your research).

"Who do you consider your biggest competitor"?    ( Again, not your typical question.)

Remember, since you won’t be in the office to organically pick up on those cues, you may have to be more up front in regards to the corporate atmosphere. 

12. Thank you notes: While we prefer thank you notes, send a thank you email within 24 hours of your interview. For an added touch (and if you really want the job!), send a handwritten note the next day. Include why you are the right person for the job; not "I believe I'm a good fit". Use persuasive writing techniques; specifically delineate why you'd be successful and demonstrate you heard what they said in the interview.

13. Follow Up Plan: Have a specific follow up plan for the coming weeks with each person you spoke with. Don't send the same thing to each person. The key is to keep your name in front of each person and get them talking about you. It shows sincerity, commitment and your desire for this job.

As always, should you have additional questions visit our website at thecomefordgroup.com. Thecomefordgroup.com is based upon research  of brain science, motivation research, coaching expertise and over 20 years of experience of executive search and coaching.