4 tips for a successful online interview

It’s not always possible for recruiters to invite you to their workplaces for job interviews. For this reason, virtual interviews are becoming increasingly popular.

Here are some tips to help you prepare for a video interview!

Prepare your answers to the most common interview questions

Just like in a face-to-face interview, you will inevitably be asked certain “classic” questions. For example, why you are interested in the job, what are your qualities and areas for improvement, etc. To be prepared:

• Browse the employer’s website to learn more about the company, its services and its values.
• Review your resumé to refresh your memory on your past work experience.
• Read the description of the position you are applying for and make links with your experience.
• Think of concrete examples of work achievements of which you are proud.
• Think of situations where you encountered obstacles and how you succeeded in overcoming them.
• Think about your strengths and about areas where you would like to improve.
• Prepare questions to ask during the interview about the position and the company. You can even jot them down on a piece of paper so you don’t forget them.

Choose a good place to set up for your interview

It’s important to set up in a place in your house or apartment that is calm, quiet, well-lit and where it’s possible to have a neutral background. If you don’t live alone, the living room or kitchen can be noisy and disrupt your interview.

Good to know: If your interview is held on Teams, you have the option of changing your background!

Avoid technical problems and distractions

Anyone who’s ever done a videoconference knows that no one is immune to camera, audio or Internet connection problems! To make sure everything goes smoothly during your interview (and avoid additional stress), take some time before it starts to check the following:

1. Is your computer’s volume set how you want?
2. Is your headset working properly? (We recommend using a headset, or headphones with a microphone, for better sound quality.)
3. Do you have a reliable Internet connection?
4. Is your camera working and turned on?
5. Have you limited any sources of distraction? (For example, tell the people you live with that you shouldn’t be disturbed during the interview. Also, close any applications that might distract you as well as social media that makes sounds when you receive notifications.)
6. Is your cell phone on silent mode?
7. Is your computer’s battery fully charged?

Lastly, look carefully at the email invitation sent to you by the recruiter. You may need to download a specific application for the videoconference. It’s best to download it ahead of time and do some tests to make sure you’re familiar with the platform.

Look and act in a professional manner

Even in a virtual interview, it’s important to look your best. Dress professionally, as you would if you were meeting in person.

In addition, pay attention to your body language. Sit up straight, look at the screen (as if you were looking your interviewer in the eyes) and try to smile and have a positive facial expression.

In short, keep in mind that a virtual job interview is pretty much the same as a face-to-face interview. Present yourself in your best light, be prepared and keep a positive attitude throughout the interview.

Are you looking for a new job? See the jobs we have available on the career page of our website!