Online interviews have become the new custom in today’s job market. They conduct their interviews online, which means that you will be at home. But just because you are at home doesn’t mean that you can approach the interview casually. Even in this kind of interview, how you dress and the tools you use play a big role in how you are viewed before you even say a word.
We will walk you through what to wear and what tools you will need to make a great first impression in your next online interview. Whether you are unemployed, a recent graduate or a recent remote worker, these tips will help you stand out for all the right reasons.
1. Dress Professionally
One of the biggest mistakes candidates make in online interviews is underestimating the importance of professional attire, even though you are not meeting in person with the interviewers, how you dress will reflect your seriousness about the role.
It’s the same as going to an onsite interview, you have to wear formal, a clean solid coloured shirt or a blouse with a blazer will do. Avoid wearing clothes that have big patterns or bright colours because they may not display well on camera and can pull attention away from you. You must always dress fully. Many people make this mistake because they might be tempted to only dress the top half, and you might make unexpected movements that can catch you off guard. Make sure your hair is tidy, and if you wear any makeup, just go for a natural look.
2. Test Your Tech Beforehand
Nothing kills an interview vibe faster than tech issues. A frozen screen or unstable audio can throw off your rhythm and frustrate the interviewer, so make sure you are fully prepared with reliable tools. Here are some of the tools you will need when doing an online interview:
A camera, make sure that it works and provide a clear image. A working microphone, you must test your audio quality and Internet connection, test your speed and sit close to the router. Lastly, you must download video call software such as Zoom, Google Meet or Microsoft Teams, depending on what the interviewer prefers and test it in advance.
3. Interview Space
Just like a traditional office, your environment matters in an online interview. Avoid a messy room or a noisy background because it can be distracting and make you appear unprofessional. When doing an interview, it’s best to choose a quiet location and make sure that your background has neutral colours or it is just a plain wall, avoid posters or distracting items behind you. Make sure that you have good lighting, you can sit facing a window or use a lamp, and lastly, turn off notifications on your phone or laptop.
4. Look at the Camera — Not the Screen
When doing an online interview, make sure you maintain eye contact just like you would in an onsite interview. You must look at the camera, not the screen, because when you look at the camera, it gives the impression that you’re speaking directly to the interviewer.
Place your camera at eye level. You can do this by elevating your laptop using books. Make sure you practise speaking while looking at the camera rather than the screen
5. Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
Once you are done with the interview, don’t just disappear; send a polite thank-you email. This will leave a big impression on that. In the email, make sure you thank the interviewer for their time, mention points you discussed during the interview and show how interested you are in the role. Your email should be short and professional.
An online interview might feel more casual, but it is still a professional interaction that can determine your next big career step. How you present yourself and prepare your environment says a lot about your readiness, interest in the job, and professionalism
