Ace Your Virtual Interview

Many companies hold virtual interviews, so we encourage you to learn about the different types of virtual interviews and how to prepare for them.

TYPES OF VIRTUAL INTERVIEWS

These interviews are conducted in real-time and are similar to in-person interviews. However, the interview is conducted over a video conferencing platform like Zoom or Google Meet.

Companies send you a link to an interviewing platform where you record your answers to pre-arranged questions. You are not interacting with an interviewer, instead, your responses are reviewed at a later time by the hiring team. Recorded video interviews are common in early stages of the interview process but can be used at any time.

  • Jobma
  • Spark Hire
  • Hireflix
  • VidCruiter
  • Willo
  • GoToMeeting

HOW TO PREPARE

Much of the preparation for virtual interviews is the same as for in-person interviews. It’s still important to research the company, dress professionally, understand the job description, and have stories prepared to demonstrate your qualifications.

However, there are some things that are unique to virtual interview preparation:

  • Make sure the room is well-lit
  • Consider using a free UW background or reserving a private space for your virtual interview
  • Aim your camera at a neutral wall that is free of posters and other items
  • Ensure that the space will be free of distractions during your interview, including pets, loud roommates, and construction noise

  • Make sure you are in a place with a strong internet connection
  • Test your internet connection about 30-minutes prior to the start of your interview
  • Notify the interview committee as soon as possible if you experience connectivity issues

  • Practice in the location where you will be interviewing
  • Use Yoodli to get real-time feedback on your interview response
  • Schedule a mock interview with one of our peer coaches
  • Check out company websites like Amazon, Google, and LinkedIn for additional practice tools

  • Time your responses using a stopwatch since you will generally have 2-3 minutes to record each interview response

  • Maintain eye contact with the camera, not the screen
  • Find ways to demonstrate enthusiasm, like smiling, nodding, and using hand gestures
  • To avoid getting distracted by looking down at notes, try jotting down a few bullet points on a sticky note and place it next to your webcam

For more information about how to prepare, watch our “How to Prepare for an Interview” webinar.