Virtual interview tips from a recruiter: How to stand out

By Matt Hostert | Dupaco recruiting supervisor

There’s a good chance your next job search will include a virtual interview or two. Many companies now use video interviews—especially for first-round screenings or when hiring across locations.

Using technology to do interviews virtually can feel different than sitting across the table from someone. But the goal is the same: To get to know each other.

Whether an interview is in person or virtual, some parts of the experience remain the same. But preparing for a virtual interview does involve a few different steps.

Here are my best tips to help you land—and ace—your virtual interview so you can be one step closer to finding your dream job.

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How do I prepare for a virtual interview?

• Start with your job search: Sites like Indeed and LinkedIn are great places to begin. You can also reach out to local career connection organizations and employment search firms. And don’t overlook your personal network. Ask friends and family for their recommendations. Referrals are a great way to get first-hand knowledge from those you trust!
• Polish your virtual identity: Your email address or username will likely be the first impression you make with potential employers. Keep them professional—ideally some combination of your first and middle initials with your last name.
• Research the company: Before the interview, look beyond the job description. You want to find out what the company’s all about. What are they passionate about? What do they believe in? What skills does the position require? Take that information and reflect on it. Try to find comparisons in how your values, passions and skills align. Then, on interview day, make sure to call out those similarities.

What questions should I ask in a virtual interview?

Always, always come prepared with thoughtful questions—it shows you’re serious about the role.

Sometimes, job candidates think they’ll come up with the questions during the interview. But that’s not always the case. You’ve got a lot on your mind during the interview, and sometimes the questions just don’t come to you.

Why is it so crucial for you to ask questions? This might be the only opportunity for you to have an open-ended dialogue with the hiring team and get your questions answered.

Here are some ideas:

• What does success look like in this position after six months?
• How does your team stay connected in a hybrid or remote environment?
• What opportunities for growth or training are available?

This is your chance to evaluate whether the company’s a good fit for you too. Take advantage of this opportunity and learn as much as you can!

How do I set up my interview space?

Your background, lighting and sound matter. You’ll want to make sure your interview space looks professional. And a few quick adjustments can make a big difference:

• Choose the right space: Provide yourself a workspace that allows you to reference your notes and questions and take new notes.
• Test your tech: Download and test the platform for your interview (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.) ahead of time. Make sure your camera and microphone work. Don’t put yourself in a situation where you’re scrambling to get your software to work minutes before the meeting starts.
• Use the right sound equipment: Headphones with a microphone can help eliminate feedback, background noise and echoing during your conversation.
• Adjust your lighting: Try to face a window or light source. If the light is behind you, you’ll likely appear in shadow, making it difficult for the technology—and your interviewers—to see you.
• Consider your camera angle: Try to place your camera at eye level. This will help create a more normal communication experience. Propping your laptop or using a stand for your phone can help. If you’re using a phone, don’t try to hold it during the interview. (That will be distracting for everyone!)
• Prevent other distractions: Do you need to move anything out of the room temporarily? If you share the space with others, plan ahead and let them know you’ll need it to be quiet. Your interview should be distraction- and noise-free.

What should I wear to a virtual interview?

Imagine how you would dress for an in-person interview, and wear that!

Even though your viewers can only see you from the waist up, wear the complete outfit, including dress pants, dress socks and dress shoes.

It might seem strange, but not doing so can distract you and prevent you from feeling fully prepared.

What happens after a virtual interview?

Always follow up with a thank-you email. Mention something specific from your conversation so it feels genuine.

If you don’t hear back right away, that’s OK.

If you’re hired, your onboarding may include virtual elements like video introductions, online training or a welcome call with your manager. If you’re curious, ask your new employer:

• How will training look if some of it’s virtual?
• How will I meet the team?
• How does the team stay connected?

Talking through these questions will give you a sense of working with this team.