Online job interview. How can you ace them?

An American survey conducted in April showed that over 85% of companies are conducting online interviews during their hiring process. When making your first impression virtually, there are some tips to remember that can help you feel more confident, relaxed and make this experience go smoothly! One of our employment officers at Algonquin College, Lindsay Bortot, has shared some of these key tips with us.

1-Have your technology set up

Make sure that before your interview you have all necessary updates installed and, if possible, do some testing with the audio and the camera. Some companies will send you a link with an app or another platform to be downloaded, and it is important to not leave it to be done 5 minutes before the interview. The biggest difference between in person interviews and virtual interviews is the technology, that’s why we always start by making sure it’s set up correctly. When that’s out of the way, you can feel confident and perform at your best,” says Bortot.

2- Get your interview environment ready

Choose a quiet, tidy and well-lit space in your house. “If you have clutter all over your desk and your background is really busy, or there are people walking by and you are not in a quiet space, obviously all of these things can impact your flow and performance,” says Bortot. That will help you concentrate and will also avoid any distraction. If you cannot find a proper space, you can also use a professional looking virtual background.

Remember also too turn off your phone and computer notifications, so they don’t distract or interrupt you or the employer.

3- Dress properly

Getting dressed in a professional outfit, head to toe, will help you be in the right headspace. “You might have to get up or you might have to close the door. If you get up and you are wearing pyjama pants that might not be the first impression you leave the employer with,” says Bortot.

4- Watch your body language

Make sure you are engaging with you audience by making eye contact, which means, looking at your camera. “Your body language and your communication are still important,” says Bortot. Don’t be shy, be transparent and let the employer know in case you cannot hear properly, or you missed something because of the connection.

5- All of the basics still apply

You should still remember to research the company. Think of concrete examples and practice your answers ahead of time. The Employment Support Centre has many helpful tools. We have a tip sheet available to remind you of some of those important points and you can also access the interview module on the AC Career Platform to learn everything you need to know about the interview process.

Algonquin students and alumni can book a mock interview appointment by calling 613-727-4723 or by emailing employment@algonquincollege.com

There is also an online tool called Interview Stream that allows students and graduates to practice, record and review mock interviews.

Visit our website to find out more: www.algonquincollege.com/employment