I recently had my first ever virtual interview.
The upside was that I didn’t have to wear pants; the downside was that I had to worry about 100 other things!
Where should I set up? Is my webcam going to be clear enough? Are my kids going to bust in screaming? Is my dog going to bark at the mailman? (which they did) Is my computer going to die in the middle of the interview? (which it did) The list goes on.
I am hitting a few of the basics below.
Choosing an outfit
This party is from the waist up and as long as you don’t STAND UP you don’t have to worry about uncomfortable pants or shoes. I beg of you, please, please, please remember not to stand up.
Personally I believe a blazer is classic interview attire. It’s simple and allows you to avoid the sleeve vs no sleeve professionalism debate. I went with a mustard-colored blouse with a v-neck (not too low cut) and my trusty black blazer for this interview. Because you are on camera and not in person, make sure to check your outfit color in the space before the interview.
Short story, once I took professional pictures for work, and the blouse I wore legitimately made me look like I only had a blazer on. Thank goodness for photoshop!
(DO NOT BE ME)
Choosing a space
- Your background should be simple and clean
- Find a space that has a good amount of natural lighting
- You should not sit with your back directly against the wall, leave some space behind you as it makes for a more pleasant visual
- Make sure that you are in the center of your camera, both horizontally and vertically.
Interview Essentials
- Be calm, conversational yet professional
- Plug in your computer
- Silence your phone
- Hide from your children and husband
- Put your dog in another room, far far away
Be yourself, highlight your strengths, be conscious of your weaknesses, and rock that interview!
