How to Prepare for a Virtual Interview

January 30, 2023 in Career and Job Search Tips, Interview Tips

 

Laurie Hyllberg

Laurie champions Kinsa Group’s position as the top food and beverage recruiting firm in the nation and its presence in the global FMCG marketplace. To her Bachelor of Science in Psychology, Business Management, and Marketing she adds over 20 years of executive search experience in the food and beverage industry at Kinsa. Building a network of executives and professionals through membership in the Women’s Foodservice Forum, Institute of Food Technologists, FaB Wisconsin, Chicagoland Food and Beverage Network, and maintaining professional expertise in recruiting as an Executive Board Member for the Recruiters Of Wisconsin association, Laurie is able to connect top talent in the food industry with food and beverage processors and foodservice providers growing their teams at the C-Suite, VP, Director, and Management level. Connect with Laurie today!

 

By now, you’re probably familiar with the basics for a virtual interview. Yet, with more employers using Google Hangout, Zoom, or Microsoft Teams interviews, and more job seekers knowing the basics, it’s a good idea to take your virtual interview skills to the next level.

 

Set Up Your Virtual Interview Tech Station

While most laptops sold over the past 5-10 years feature a built-in webcam, you definitely need to make sure yours has one before you do anything else. If your computer does not have one, you can buy an inexpensive external webcam or be prepared to use your mobile phone for the video interview. Check your camera with the chosen app prior to the interview to make sure it works properly and no additional downloads are needed. Additionally, test your camera and internet connection from the intended site of your video interview. Do this in advance to make sure you are up and running with no possible technical difficulties in sight.

Charge It Up

Whether you’re using a laptop, phone or tablet, make sure it’s fully charged on the day of the interview. And pick a spot that has strong Wi-Fi. If you’re using a phone or tablet, plan to prop it up to keep it stationary. Otherwise, the screen may appear shaky if you’re holding the device.

Dress for Success

Dress as you would for an in-person interview — from head to toe. Doing so will make you feel more prepared and confident. Don’t try the old newscaster trick of wearing a blazer with sweatpants. By doing that, you’re assuming you’ll only be seen from the waist up (you never know). Also, avoid wearing bright, flashy colors, and choose something that looks neatly pressed while you’re sitting down. Wear your video interview outfit during your trial run so you can get feedback from your friend or family member about how it looks onscreen.

Remove Distractions From the Room

Whether you love massive posters of classic cars or you collect antiques, it is best to avoid sharing those interests in the background of your video interview. Either choose a location clear of distracting items or temporarily remove them.

Maintain Good Eye Contact and Body Language Throughout the Virtual Interview

It’s easier for your eyes to wander when the person you’re talking to isn’t in the room. Maintain virtual eye contact by looking directly into the camera instead of at the screen or at your own photo. Make sure your face is centered and try not to move around too much. Keep good posture by sitting with your back straight, feet on the ground, and arms resting in your lap or on the desk.

Kinsa Group’s recruiters and our broad network of food industry executives are always looking for top talent and we’d like to help you find the best opportunity to match your skills. Submit your resume below and our recruiters will reach out as new roles open up!

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