Think about where you will have the interview. Whether located in a dedicated home office or any other room, ensure a distraction-free, uncluttered background.
Be aware of lighting. If possible don’t sit with your back to a window. Ideally, you will be facing light, either from a lamp or a window, for clear and even illumination of your face.
Place the camera at eye level for minimal shadowing.
Check your internet connection to ensure it’s strong and stable. Wired ethernet connections (rather than Wi-Fi) may improve speed.
Test computer audio and webcam prior to your interview and give yourself enough time to troubleshoot in case there’s an issue. Quality headphones improve audio and minimize external noise but even just an external microphone will improve sound quality.
Confirm that the device you’re using (laptop, tablet or phone) is fully charged or plugged in to avoid battery outage.
Provide the interviewer with your contact information, and have theirs, in case of technical issues.
Confirm the videoconferencing platform (Zoom, WebEx, Teams, etc.) to ensure you have the app downloaded and test it/practice prior to the interview.
The day of the interview
Be sure to let family/roommates know that you will be in an interview and secure any pets away from your interview space.
Close all other applications on your device so you aren’t interrupted by notifications. Turn all other devices off so you aren’t distracted.
Join the call a few minutes early to avoid keeping the interviewer waiting. Have your resume and note paper/pen handy.
Dress as if you were attending the interview in person to help you get into the right mindset.
Look directly into the camera (as opposed to your computer screen), sit up straight, nod and smile appropriately to communicate that you are engaged.
At the end of the interview, thank your interviewer and then email a thank-you note within 24 hours. Briefly reiterate in your email why you’re interested in the role and why you’d be a great match.
