Navigating virtual job interviews
Virtual has become our new normal. And for East Carolina University students heading into their careers, virtual job interviews will most likely be in their foreseeable future.
“Virtual interviews might seem intimidating, but focus on the advantages and make them work for you,” says Dr. Pam Hopkins, director of ECU’s Speech Communication Center, located in Joyner East in the School of Communication.
Together with ECU’s communications team, Hopkins has created a quick video (located at the top) to help students prepare for an online job interview. She advises students to choose a location that is quiet, doesn’t have any distractions and has a good chair that will allow you to sit up straight. Hopkins says sitting back in a recliner gives you an awkward look on camera. As for lighting, she says to make sure the light is in front of you and not behind — and if possible — sit facing a window to use natural light. Hopkins adds to make sure your background is as generic and non-distracting as possible.
Once the location is chosen, Hopkins urges you to have the computer, tablet or phone’s camera at eye level. She says this will give a professional look and make it seem like you are looking right at the interviewer.
Visit YouTube for the closed-captioned version of this video.
“Practicing virtual interviews should be a priority if you want to be successful. Choose a virtual platform and record yourself answering questions,” Hopkins said. “Watch the recording and then make the necessary adjustments.”
When answering questions, Hopkins says to eliminate as many vocal fillers as possible — like, ah, you know, know what I mean and um. And, even though the interviewer won’t see you from the waist down, she advises professional dress from head to toe because this will help you feel more professional.
While virtual job interviews might be a bit different from in-person interviews, there is at least one benefit. “When interviewing virtually from your own home or an office, you don’t have to wear a mask,” Hopkins says.
If you would like help when it comes virtual job interviews, email Hopkins at hopkinsp@ecu.edu or call the ECU Speech Communication Center at 252-328-2790.