Introduction

"Your virtual interview is scheduled for tomorrow at 10 Am". Do such reminders make you lose your confidence? 

Then, it is time for you to sit back, and relax, we are here to guide you with a step-by-step process to prepare for the virtual interview. Ever since finding a job online has become more accessible, the competition has also risen radically. For some people, virtual interviews are easy deals, whereas many of you might not be confident in front of the webcam. In fact, covid 19 has played a major role in being the trendsetter for “Work from Home” opportunities in the corporate industry. 

As per the survey conducted by indeed.com, two out of five employers believe virtual hiring will remain popular post-pandemic. Therefore, it is no wonder that companies are now shifting to a virtual interview process, at least for the screening stage, for its obvious advantages.

But do not hesitate anymore! The only thing that can help you stay confident and stand out from the crowd is solid preparation and hacks to meet everything the virtual interviews require.

What is a virtual interview?

Virtual interview meaning pops up with the word itself, Virtual: not physical Interview. 

These interviews are conducted online, via remote connection, often on mobile phones, laptops, tabs, etc. by using technology such as video conferencing and other platforms for online communication. Virtual interviews are typically performed in the same way as face-to-face interviews. However, a web camera captures only a partial view of your body. So you only have to make yourself professional towards your upper body including the face, shoulder, arms and hands. 

Here are some of the top virtual interview tips and practices to present yourself in the best manner.

Tips to prepare for Virtual Interviews:

Research about the company and the job opportunity

You need to know about the company and the opportunity details. Check for companies' websites, services, products, authenticity, and valuation in the market. For job details, do check the roles and responsibilities, the salary, working hours and location, and most importantly, the expertise they are looking for.  

Doing such research will portray how much you’re interested in the job. Secondly, if you are aware of such things before, you can quickly answer questions like "What do you know about the company?" or "Why are you interested in joining our company? This will satisfy the interview's assumption and show your keen interest in being a part of their team. Another advantage is you can also negotiate with the interviewer confidently if required.

Revision is important

While checking out the job description, you will surely learn about the requirement and expertise the respective position demands. It might not be an issue for beginners, but for the people who have been working for a long would require a revision of subjects you have studied earlier and the project reports you have worked on in the past. 

Also, do not forget to check your resume once before appearing for the interview.

It is seen that 1 - 2 questions from your resumes and prior experiences are commonly asked as the interviewer might wish to know more about you in detail. So better be prepared. 

Prepare for common questions and be confident

You do not think about your appearance as the interviewer is not selecting you for your beauty but your skills, so be confident. To avoid losing it, look at the camera and not your mirror picture; it might distract you.

Secondly, be prepared for some common questions like your introduction, prior work experience, current CTC, future expectations, weaknesses, strengths, etc. This will also boost your confidence as you will not lag when such questions are asked.

Best Practices for virtual interviews:

1. Keep control of your expressions and mark your hand gestures. Minimal smiles and gestures give a realistic, confident, and relaxed view of yours. However, do not get over-expressive as it might be counting a negative score.

2. Formal Dressing and tidy hair are the keys to an impressive interview. Although, you can wear a formal top or shirt along with the casual bottom, as virtual interview sessions give you the advantage of showcasing only what you wish.

3. Try connecting with a laptop or computer instead of a phone and keep all the previous work on the desktop as you might be asked to share the screen and present your work.

4. Always have your device charged before joining the virtual interviews to have an uninterrupted session.

5. Select the best corner of your house or create a clear and tidy background using light shade curtains, walls or different options to present yourself well. Also, try isolating yourself from noise and other disturbances.

6. Have a proper check for lighting, or the window is open opposite to your face, and you are clearly visible.

7. Always keep your phone beside you but in vibration mode. Be careful, if you lose the connection, your interviewer might contact you over text or call.

8. Always have a plan B along, too, in case your internet or device fails. You can ask your siblings or roommates' device or hotspot.

Conclusion:

We hope we are now able to raise your confidence higher than 40%  by now, and you are positive enough to appear for your upcoming virtual interview. However, if you have not applied for any job yet, check out Qween, one of the most trusted platforms to get the best and verifies job openings for freshers as well as experienced people.

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