Dear Sam: I am applying for a work-from-home position with an out-of-state company, so will only be engaging in virtual interviews. I usually do pretty well during in-person interviews, but I feel particularly nervous about staring into a computer camera while trying to remain calm and deliver impactful answers. Do you have any tips to help reduce my anxiety? — Kyle
Dear Kyle: It is completely understandable that you are feeling anxiety about any interview process. Even the most experienced interviewees get a little nervous, so as this is your first virtual interview, rest assured that your feelings are completely valid. Let’s review some of the ways you can prepare and hopefully reduce your anxiety.
1. Set up your location
Find a quiet place to conduct your interview. Make sure the background is not distracting and the area is well lit. Of course, be sure you are free of interruptions. Also, use a computer ,not a cell phone, during your interview because you will want a device large enough for you to emulate an in-person environment.
2. Choose your interview attire
Select and prepare your outfit ahead of the interview, dressing as you would if it were an in-person interview. I know it might be tempting to only dress professionally from the waist up, but better safe than sorry in the event you have to get up and more of you comes into view than expected.
3. Check your device
Make sure you know how to turn off your device’s notifications or mute them during your interview, and, of course, be sure your devices have adequate battery power for the duration of the interview. If the interview is live, you likely will receive an invitation to the interview, so be sure to download any software or plugins you will need. Do a test run to ensure you are familiar with the user interface.
4. Practice posture and eye gaze
Have you heard of the 7-38-55 rule? That means only 7% of communication is expressed verbally, 38% is through your tone, and 55% is non-verbal. Hence, make sure to prioritize eye contact. This will feel unnatural as you are going to want to look at the face of the person on the screen as you chat. You will need to remind yourself to look into the camera as you speak; when listening during the conversation, feel free to look at the screen. Pay attention to your posture — ensuring you are sitting straight — as you might be somewhere you feel overly comfortable, but you still need to be professional.
5. Prepare for the unexpected
If a technical error occurs, have a way to communicate with the person with whom you will be speaking, either by phone or by email. If there is an unplanned physical distraction (loud noise, siren, pets, children, etc.), apologize and request a moment to attend to the interruption, if needed. Also, make sure you know ahead of time how to mute the conversation!
By practicing and preparing for this opportunity, you will be sure to let more of your authentic personality shine through and show the employer why you are a great candidate for the position and the company’s culture. I wish you the best of luck!
More career advice
Samantha Nolan is an Advanced Personal Branding Strategist and Career Expert, founder and CEO of Nolan Branding. Do you have a resume, career, or job search question for Dear Sam? Reach Samantha at [email protected]. For information on Nolan Branding’s services, visit www.nolanbranding.com or call 888-9-MY-BRAND or 614-570-3442.