10 Tips for Online Interviews (for Job Seekers)
Technology is changing exponentially. In fact, there are currently 4.88 billion internet users in the world and 5.29 billion mobile phone users. It’s safe to say that these technological advances are impacting every area of our lives and disrupting every industry, including the staffing industry. What use to be a rare practice is now a normal routine in staffing world; online interviews. Whether it’s through Zoom, RingCentral, or any other platform, interviews through a computer screen have allowed candidates to connect with employers faster and cheaper while allowing each party to observe both verbal and non-verbal communication from opposites sides of the country (or even the world).
To help make great first impressions online, our team has come up with 10 tips for online interviews:
Be in a building.
Set up your computer inside of a room in a building with stable internet access. Being in a car can communicate (unintentionally) that you aren’t prioritizing the person on the other end of the computer screen, and it just looks tacky. When a candidate joins the interview from inside a car, the interviewer usually ends up looking up someone’s nose because of the difficulty of getting a good video shot. So find yourself a spot that communicates that this meeting is a priority with little room for distraction or disconnection.Use a computer, not a phone.
A computer or tablet with a bigger screen helps give a clearer view of the interviewer and also gives a better picture of your appearance. Also, it’s easier to stabilize the picture on a computer rather than trying to hold or prop up a phone. You don’t want to look like you’re in the middle of an earthquake, but often times that’s the effect given when you’re holding your phone. Furthermore, you will typically have better internet connection on a computer rather than a phone connecting to 5G or LTE.Background matters.
Be intentional about your background. It actually says a lot about you! Many platforms allow you to insert a picture as your background. If you use a custom picture, make sure it’s not distracting but instead something that draws attention to YOU, the interviewee. If you use a natural background, don’t be in an environment where people are walking behind you. Also, don’t put your messy closet on display or anything else that looks sloppy like empty candy wrappers or pop cans. Showing a picture behind you of your favorite 80’s band may not scream professionalism either. A wall that is a simple solid color (not a loud color), a wall with calm abstract pictures or family photos, an office, or a living area that is tidy can make for good backgrounds. But put some intentionality into your surroundings before you join the call.Dress for success.
Even though you may join an online interview in the comfort of your own home, dress intentionally. Don’t wear an old wrinkled t-shirt or a hat. Also, don’t just throw a nice shirt on while wearing Captain America pajama bottoms (thinking that the interviewer won’t be able to see your pants anyway). Dress professionally from top to bottom. It will change the way you present yourself and will boost confidence. Lastly, try to wear solid colors on top. Patterns have a vibration effect on screen and can be distracting. Bottom line: dress like you want the job!Be on time (so be early).
Show up early and build in a time buffer to check your internet connection and your surroundings. You want to show that you are punctual and are taking the interview seriously. So be the first one on the call!Test your audio/video.
Check your audio and video ahead of time. If you are connecting to bluetooth (like Apple AirPods) check that they are connected properly. Most platforms allow you to check audio and video before you join the call so you don’t have to fumble through connecting these in front of the interviewer. Being prepared in this way will help you stay mentally focused on the interview itself.Look at the camera.
As awkward as it may feel, look into the camera on your device (or at least close to it). When you look at the camera it will look like you are making eye contact with the interviewer and will feel more personal. You’ll want to be able to glance at your picture when necessary, but don’t just stare at the picture of yourself or the interviewer the entire time. One trick is to drag your picture to the top of the screen next to the camera so your eyes will at least stay in that same area for the duration of the call.Make a connection with the organization.
One way to connect with an interviewer online is to show that there is a connection between you and the organization. Review the organization’s website before the meeting so you can speak to their values and mission. Hopefully this goes without saying, but read the job description for the job before the call! Also, a personal experience goes a long way. Maybe you notice something on their website that you personally have a connection to or maybe you have a friend that works there. Share these kinds of things on the call.Be “intro-ready”.
Be ready to introduce yourself professionally and personally. The interviewer could start off the call with, “so tell me about yourself.” Don’t be caught flat footed, mumbling “uh”, “well”, “um”. Be ready to give a clear but succinct overview of who you are and what you are looking for in this next season. You may not need to script this out but at least have the bullet points memorized.If the link fails, don’t panic.
Unfortunately, technology is not perfect. The internet could disconnect or the call could freeze. If this happens, don’t panic. Just simply log back in and pick up right where you left off. Keep cool and collected and show you can handle an unexpected left turn.
You can’t control everything during an interview process but you can control the things above. If the job doesn’t work out in the end, that’s ok. But by following these tips you can say you still put your best foot forward. If you have any other questions about interviewing or anything related to your job search, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at connect@rukesgroup.com. We would love to serve you.
Todd Rukes is Founder & President of Rukes Search Group. With over a decade of church ministry experience, Todd Rukes has served in various ministry and pastoral roles including Worship Pastor, Director of Human Resources, Executive Pastor, and Sr. Director of Communications at Harvest Bible Chapel. Todd also has a background as a Worship Leader and Musical Artist, recording multiple albums and leading worship for over 100 churches around the United States and Canada.
