Ready to land your dream job? Here’s a pro tip—first impressions are everything.
A company’s first impression of you often determines the direction and outcome of your conversations. In a traditional face-to-face setting, these impressions come from your appearance, body language, and how you engage with the interviewer. However, it’s almost entirely different if you’re interviewing virtually. Digital limitations make it more critical to present yourself effectively from the get-go.
The Importance of a Good First Impression
First impressions are the initial perceptions others form about you within seconds—seven, according to experts—of meeting you. Some characteristics influencing these judgments include your:
- Appearance
- Body language
- Tone of voice
- Confidence
- Demeanor
In job interviews, first impressions impact the entire hiring process. Presenting yourself well initially shows interviewers that you’re serious and ready for discussion. In turn, you create a positive bias affecting how they interpret your responses and qualifications, increasing your chances of moving to the next hiring stage.
Finally, making a solid first impression can help you stand out from other candidates. While others might be nervous or shy, being confident and professional makes you memorable and lets you leave a lasting positive impact on the interviewer’s mind.
Physical vs. Online Job Interviews: Understanding the Differences
Before discussing how to make a positive first impression in online job interviews, let’s first differentiate the demands between physical and online settings.
Physical interviews
Advantages for client-facing roles
Are you applying for sales or support positions? Physical interviews allow interviewers to observe and assess your interpersonal skills, which are valuable to these roles. You must prove your ability to maintain conversation, read non-verbal cues, and make personal connections—something that’s difficult to do in online interviews.
Accessibility
Not all job seekers have reliable computers and peripherals, high-speed internet access, or the skills to operate them. This limitation bars many from online interviews despite having the necessary skills.
On the other hand, conducting interviews in person ensures all applicants can prove their qualifications without tech-related disadvantages.
No distractions
Interruptions from family members, roommates, and pets are too common in virtual interviews. On the other hand, in-person settings offer controlled environments with fewer distractions. You can focus on the conversation and present yourself freely without disruptions.
Online job interviews
Efficiency
Online job interviews present little to no delays. For example, employers may schedule back-to-back interviews without accounting for travel time or coordinating physical meeting spaces. It’s also easier for you since it reduces the time you spend waiting for feedback. It generally makes the entire hiring process hassle-free.
Scheduling flexibility
Online meetings are more flexible in terms of schedules by accommodating the availability of candidates and interviewers. Without the need to commute, you can schedule interviews at more convenient times, including early mornings, evenings, or even weekends. Applicants from other time zones become more accessible as well.
Overseas availability
Likewise, remote setups allow companies to connect with candidates from anywhere. It’s especially beneficial for roles that don’t require physical presence, like those in development and content. Furthermore, such availability enables companies to employ a more diverse and inclusive team.
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4 Tips to Help You Ace Online Interviews
Consider these tips to improve your performance in remote interviews and increase your chances of landing your dream job.
1. Test your devices
Test your computer, internet connection, camera, and microphone before your interview to ensure they work well. In effect, you have time to troubleshoot or replace them. Then, familiarize yourself with the company’s preferred video conferencing platform (e.g., Zoom, Google Meet) so you can join the meeting, share your screen if necessary, and fix common issues without fuss.
2. Pick a good location
Choose a quiet, well-lit location for your interview. Also, ensure your background is clean and free of distractions—ideally, a plain wall or tidy bookshelf. If you can’t find a visually appealing location, most video conferencing tools allow you to blur your background or add an image. Lastly, inform everyone you live with about your interview schedule to so they won’t interrupt you.
3. Participate in the interview
Interviews are a two-way street. Engage with the interviewer by maintaining eye contact or looking at the camera rather than your screen. Listen to their questions and respond thoughtfully, elaborating on your points but staying concise so as not to stray from the topic.
It’s also a good idea to prepare some questions to show your interest in the role and company.
4. Consider your body language
Body language is as essential in virtual interviews as in face-to-face setups. Sit straight, relax your shoulders, and maintain an open posture to show confidence. At the same time, smile and nod to convey enthusiasm. Avoid slouching or yawning, as they often indicate disinterest or nervousness.
Land Your Dream Job Flawlessly
You might not be in front of actual people, but making a lasting first impression remains critical to success. So, apply the tips above to improve your interview skills and show your professionalism and readiness from the get-go. Understanding your contract and employer and being ready for virtual interviews gives you an edge over other applicants and boosts your odds of landing your dream job.
