Looking for a new job in the midst of a pandemic? Nervous about making a good impression online? We get it—navigating the virtual job market can be intimidating. But you’re no less qualified now than you were eight months ago. With a little preparation and some basic interview skills, you’ll be ready to impress any prospective employer.
To help you feel prepared and confident, we’ve compiled a list of tips so you can make a great first impression and nail your next virtual job interview.
Test Technology Beforehand
Make sure all your technology is working and up-to-date the day before your interview. Trouble-shooting during your interview is unprofessional and distracting. Ensure all apps are updated, and your internet connection is secure.
Additionally, double-check which video chat interface you’ll be using for the interview, and make sure you have the correct platform downloaded onto your computer.
Quick tip: Use a professional username for the video call. “Horselover95” may have been a fun email address in high school but may not make the best impression in a professional setting.
Dress Professionally
Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean it’s wise to interview in your PJs or yoga clothes. When making a good virtual impression, it’s important to look polished and dress for success. Take time to select your outfit, and pay attention to the details.
- Accessorize – Nice watches for men are a sophisticated, timeless accessory to add to any ensemble.
Keep it simple – Use restraint with your makeup and hairstyle. Lavish hairdos and bright makeup can be distracting, especially on a video call. Opt for understated, elegant makeup for women.
Choose a Professional Setting
A good virtual impression is all about minimizing distractions. A professional backdrop conveys a polished, productive work environment. If you’re doing your virtual interview at home, scope out a quiet spot ahead of time. Make sure you’re far away from noisy kids and pets. Remove any clutter from behind you, and put away anything you wouldn’t want your potential employer to see.
Quick tip: A clutter-free environment includes your screen. Close extra tabs and turn off notifications to eliminate mid-interview distractions.
Prepare in Advance
Just like in-person interviews, it’s important to prepare for online interviews ahead of time. Prior to your interview, set aside time to research the company and familiarize yourself with their expectations and policies.
Here are some tips to get you started:
- Look at the company you’re applying to and see if their core values align with yours. Ask yourself why this job appeals to you and what you think you’d gain from the experience.
- Write down a list of questions to ask during your interview. Asking questions demonstrates you are curious and engaged, which is especially essential over video chat.
- Think about your preferred salary ahead of time. You don’t want to be caught off-guard if you need to talk about finances.
Be Authentic
Above all else, just be yourself! After all, there’s no one else who brings your unique talents to the table. You have something special to offer, so don’t be afraid to let your personality shine.
Remember, it’s difficult to read body language over video chat, so sitting up straight and looking into the camera goes a long way. Maintaining eye-contact establishes attentiveness and interest. And don’t forget to smile!
Follow-Up
Send a follow-up email to your interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Reiterate your interest in the company, and highlight an aspect of the interview you found helpful or illuminating. Sending a follow-up email reinforces a good impression and shows your potential employer your enthusiasm and dedication.
Now, You’re Prepped for Success
Remember, job hunting is all about finding an opportunity that works for you. Approach your job search with curiosity and enthusiasm, and don’t sweat the small stuff.
When you’ve got a can-do attitude and are prepared, you’ll find your dream job in no time.
The North Carolina Utilities Commission (NCUC) last week approved an electric vehicle pilot program for Duke Energy in North Carolina, the largest such program approved in the state.
The North Carolina Sports Association (NCSA) is pleased to announce the formation of the North Carolina Sports Leadership Council, comprised of sports leaders from across the state who will serve as the industry’s collective voice on issues impacting sports event tourism.
It’s time to start 
EarthCam and the North Carolina Wildlife Federation (NCWF) are bringing visitors a unique bird’s-eye-view of an osprey nest in Mooresville, NC with this new 
Most medical marijuana programs in states across the U.S. list a number of conditions that qualify a patient for a license to buy and/or grow weed to keep their symptoms under control. Though more study is warranted to better understand the short- and long-term effects of cannabis on the body and mind, it seems that cannabis is more or less officially accepted as a medical treatment, even for serious conditions like epilepsy, HIV, Crohn’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and PTSD. In fact, it is incredibly common to see “cancer” listed among these conditions.
There are numerous cell cultures and animal models that demonstrate THC acting against some cancers, limiting or completely halting their growth. These studies convinced Canadian engineer Rick Simpson to use THC in his battle against skin cancer. Simpson created an incredibly concentrated oil, now
Computer manufacturer Lenovo Inc. has paid an employee $108,152 to resolve violations of the Family and Medical Leave Act disclosed in an investigation by the U.S. Department of Labor’s Wage and Hour Division.
One man is now in custody after reports of shots fired yesterday at the Concord Mills Mall.