Tips for Online Interviews Even prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, online interviews were on Nailing a the rise as more companies have begun to work remotely with Job Interview employees. Online interviews are here to stay, so it’s best to prepare.

Do your homework – Research Conduct a test run with your Prepare questions – Show interest the company, position, and even the computer – Have you downloaded by asking questions about the compa- person conducting the interview. Ask the right software? Do you have the ny and position. mentors and friends if they have any meeting link handy? Is your internet insights about the position. Also, ask working well? Computer charged, Calm yourself – Take a few moments whether there will be a technical com- plugged in, etc.? Test your systems to reflect and relax prior to the inter- ponent to the interview. before the interview. view. Tell yourself you are ready. Assess your skills – Be prepared to Ensure you choose an appropri- Put your best face forward – talk about how and why you are the ate place for the interview – Remain calm and smile. Be sure to not best candidate for the job. Select a space with good light. Pick a appear distracted and look your inter- spot in front of a wall with a nice picture viewer in the eye. Practice, practice, practice – An- or bookcase. Avoid clutter in Anticipate delays in the ticipate potential interview questions the background. and prepare your answers. A great connection – Again, remain calm. strategy is to practice with video. Ask a Head off noisy distractions– If there is a technological issue, there is friend to join you in a video call. Turn your phone on silent, shut the typically a chat feature to communicate door, ask for quiet if there is anyone a bad connection. Develop a few anecdotal else in the house. experiences – Determine how you Plan your exit – As the interview would apply these to specific require- Look professional – Dress profes- comes to a close, have a prepared ments of the job. sionally and ensure you’re sitting up summary about why you think you are straight so your face is in the center of a good fit for the position. Your sincere the screen. interest and enthusiasm for the job will come through.

Know where you’re going – To Be equipped – Bring a professional minimize stress, check traffic and choose notebook, pen, and extra copies of Face-to-face your best route. Ensure you have allotted your résumé. interviews enough time to get to the interview loca- tion, park, and walk through the door. Give off good vibes– Be engaging, require the same amount relaxed, receptive, and optimistic. Be prepared to be interviewed of preparation and Thank the interviewer – Email a professional attire, but by a group – This is common practice now, so don’t be surprised to walk into “thank you” note within 24 hours. there are also travel a conference room with two or three and interpersonal other company employees. dynamics to consider. Regardless of whether your interview is online or face-to-face, remem- ber that interviewing is a two-way street and you are also interviewing them. Is this a company culture in which you can be successful? Are there growth opportunities? What about professional development? Do you have the option to telework? These are important to consider as you sit down with a potential employer. Good luck!