Career Help Agency in Brookfield, Illinois

How to Avoid Costly Mistakes in Virtual Interviews

During the Pandemic, many companies utilized virtual tools like Zoom; to conduct online interviews. Since then, hiring managers have maintained this practice to continue their candidate search due to the convenience of online meetings. Online interviews, as opposed to traditional in-person interviews, bring new standard practices candidates should consider. Let's take a look at four costly mistakes that a leading career help agencyhas identified for you to be aware of when preparing for a virtual interview.

Maintain Eye Contact 

When on the computer or your phone during an interview, it can be easy to get distracted. It is important that you make a point to hold eye contact with your interviewer to silently communicate to them that you are actively listening to what they have to say. Doing this will prove to them that you value their time and are genuinely interested in the position you are applying for.

Set Up in a Quiet Room 

In a traditional interview setting, you are not responsible for controlling your environment during the interview process. However, with virtual interviews, this responsibility now lands on both the interviewer's and interviewee’s shoulders. Make sure you let others around you know that you will be on an interview call and set up your workspace in a quiet room where you will not be disturbed. Choosing a quiet room will ensure that you are not interrupted during your meeting and give you the best opportunity to impress the hiring manager.

Put Your Devices on Silent 

Switching your devices to silent mode is essential during an online interview. Not only will this allow you to focus solely on your interview, but it will also ensure that you are not interrupted during the process. Make sure that you not only switch your mobile devices to silent mode, but if you are using a MacBook, or any other device that receives notifications, that they are set to silent as well. It is important that you have handled any potential interruptions before your interview so that you have the best chance of making a good first impression.

Organize Your Background Space 

Before you start your virtual interview, make sure that your background is organized and clean. If your space is cluttered and messy, this can lead the interviewer to believe that you did not take the time to adequately prepare for the interview and that your space reflects you as an individual. 

Preparing for an online interview should be treated in the same manner of professionalism as you would any in-person interview. By maintaining eye contact, finding a quiet room, setting your devices to silent mode, and having a clean background space, you can increase your chances of being considered for the position. If you find yourself unsure about how to conduct yourself in a virtual interview, you can reach out to your local employment servicesto find more helpful interview tips and potential pitfalls to avoid!

About Us

Locally owned and operated Express Employment Professionals in Brookfield, IL is a full-service staffing company that continually exceeds the expectations of companies and job seekers in our community. We excel in placing Office Administrative positions and industrial manufacturing, warehousing, and logistics positions in the West Suburban Chicagoland area.