Online Interview tips

Online interviews are still very popular amongst employers and colleges. With Covid still circulating, I think they will be around for some time to come. Interviews are nerve racking experiences at the best of times, but the online process adds an extra layer to contend with. The good news is there are a few tips that you can use to help you ace the online interview.

1.       Practice: predict the questions, prepare your answers and practice saying them. Practice, practice, practice. Practice in front of the mirror saying your answers out loud. This allows you to pay attention to your body language as well as what you are saying. 

2.       Look at the camera: when you are answering the questions online, it is important that you look into the camera and not the screen. This ensures good eye contact. If you look at the screen, your eyes will appear to be looking down from the interviewer’s perspective. Good eye contact shows interest and enthusiasm. This takes practice so spend some time doing this in the days leading up to your interview.

3.       Breathe: when we are nervous, our breathing speeds up and our hearts beat faster making us even more nervous. Therefore, it is vital that you slow your breathing down and take slow deep breaths. This will make you feel calmer and enable you to answer the questions in a more confident manner.

4.       Be natural: even though you will have prepared and practiced your answers, try to deliver them in a natural manner. You don’t want to sound like a robot.

5.       Use the STAR format for competency questions: Situation, Task, Action, Result. This will ensure that you provide a focused answer and give evidence to support your qualities and skills.

6.       Check your set up: make sure your space has enough light and your internet connection is adequate. Also ensure your background is neat and tidy and appropriate for an interview.

Best wishes with your interview!

 For more information, support and advice with online interviews, contact McCullagh Careers today at info@mccullaghcareers.ie or 0872120527.