Virtual Interviewing: 101

>> Picture this, you sit down at your computer for your virtual interview. You really want this job, but to get it, you know that you have to impress the hiring manager. You make your introductions when all of the sudden, here comes your dog pulling at your leg. There goes the bulldozer working on your neighbor's home construction. Maybe the employer didn't notice, but most likely, they did. [ Music ] The first thing you want to do is pick the location where the interview will take place. You want to convey a level of professionalism. So don't do it in your bedroom with your unmade bed and your Justin Bieber poster in the background. Here are some suggestions. If you can't get into an office, find something with a very basic background, like a blank wall or shelf. No windows in front of or behind you. This could distract either you or the interviewer if something should begin to occur outside. Good lighting. Quiet. All phones, radio, and TV turned off. In further preparing your environment, you might want to post some sticky notes on your computer with bullet points and conversational topics to help you along the way. >> We use virtual interviews a lot, and what we're looking for is culture fit during those interviews. So everything from what you're wearing to whether you're making eye contact to whether you're using up-speak or saying "um" a lot. I've had a few Skype interviews where you can tell the person just rolled out of bed or is in a coffee shop, and there's, you know, people around, and you just have to take it, treat it as carefully as you would going into the office. >> Basically, you want to eliminate any potential distractions, and if you live in a shared space, make sure you lock your door to avoid any unwanted intrusions. >> Let me tell you something about this man. This man right here, deal of the century. If you don't take him, there's something wrong with you. All right, babe, I'll [inaudible] to the movies. Come on. >> Another important step is to get your technology in order. Check your internet connection to make sure it's strong, and check the audio. Take a practice run on whatever software you might be using. Know how to use it and know how to troubleshoot any problems that could potentially arise. Speaking of technology, here's a piece of advice about your camera angle. Make sure you have it set up level to your face. Even if you have to prop the camera up on something. For instance, it may not be very flattering have the camera below looking up at your face. And while we're on camera angle, you want to convey eye contact by looking directly at the lens. Looking at the image on the screen will not achieve it. So you've got the location picked out and your technology all set up. Now what are you going to wear? Remember, you want to treat this like an in-person interview. After all, they can see you. So stay away from any overly bright colors or distracting jewelry. Dress for success in professional attire. That means both top and bottom. >> Don't just, like, wear your pajamas because you're at home. Dress professionally. Ideally, if you can do it in a setting other than your bedroom, that's great. >> So there you go. The virtual interview, like any other interview, is a great opportunity for you to shine. It just requires a slightly different level of preparation. Good luck, and go get 'em.