As we all transition and adjust to our new remote learning environments, so are companies and potential employers. Almost all job and internship interviews have been moved to a virtual process. But what does that look like? How can you successfully complete a virtual interview? Keep reading for some helpful tips to make sure you put your best screen forward!

TEST YOUR TECHNOLOGY.
It is very important to test everything that you will be using during your interview beforehand. Technology, although incredibly helpful, can sometimes be unreliable. Therefore, it is important to test it out! Make sure your microphone and camera are working and provide good quality audio and visuals. Also check that your login information for the platform you will be using for the interview is up-to-date. You should also test your wifi speed beforehand and determine if you need to take any steps to improve it. Doing all of this before the interview day will reduce unexpected difficulties and stress during the interview that can make you look unprofessional and unprepared.

DRESS THE PART.
Although you are now talking to a computer screen rather than a person, it is still important to dress in business professional clothing. Employers are still able to see you, and you’ll want to make a good impression. Dressing for success can also increase your confidence which will reflect well during the interview itself. For more information on how to dress professionally, review the MPA Dress for Success webcasts and handouts on Canvas.

MONITOR YOUR BODY LANGUAGE.
This may not seem critical as you are not communicating in person. However, your body language is still just as important as before. Keep your computer camera at eye level to mirror an in-person interview as best as you can. Make sure you are sitting up straight and have a smile on your face. Remember to also focus on the camera rather than the screen with your employer because this reflects eye contact. Another helpful tip is to write your key points on a sticky note and place it next to your camera so you avoid looking down and flipping through papers during the interview.

AVOID DISTRACTIONS.
There are several ways to throw off a virtual interview, but distractions are high on the list. This reflects unpreparedness, lack of professionalism, and little passion for the job you are applying for. Make sure that you are alone during the interview so there is no background noise, and avoid looking at your phone. During an interview, your sole focus should be on the employer and the company. Anything that does not reflect this should be put away!

HAVE A GOOD SET UP.
When it comes to online interviews, even the smallest detail can affect how an employer views you as an applicant. Make sure what the employers will be looking at through your camera looks professional and easy on the eyes. This means having a neutral background, the proper camera angle, good lighting, etc. Watch this video that features the McCombs PR Director who details the ways to set up your interview station.

BE PREPARED.
Even though you may not have the same level of nerves with an online interview compared to an in-person one, this does not mean you should prepare less for the virtual interview. Companies are still looking at your qualifications and personality to shine through during the interview. Although they are doing so virtually now, they are still using similar criteria as an in-person interview. Prepare the same way you normally would for a face-to-face meeting to ensure you are ready for any questions or application of skills.

Schedule a mock interview with an MPA Career Consultant!  Dom Serra and Jo Chauvin will gladly meet with you via Zoom, Skype, or another platform, so that not only can you practice your interviewing skills, but you’ll also get the real experience of interviewing virtually.

As recruiting continues, we hope this helps you feel more prepared for the change in the interview process. Good luck and Hook ‘Em!