Interview Type: Virtual 

Confirm the platform and link: 

• Ask for the video conference link ahead of time 

• Test the software in advance if possible 

Test your technology: 

At least 15 minutes before the interview: 

• Test your webcam, microphone, and speaker 

• Check your internet connection 

• Close all unnecessary applications and browser tabs 

• Ensure your computer is plugged in (you don’t want the battery dying mid-interview) 

• Update your Zoom/Teams profile with a professional photo 

Set up your environment: 

• Choose a quiet room where you won’t be interrupted 

• Close the door and windows and mute notifications from your phone and computer 

• Use a clean, neutral background or an appropriate virtual background in Zoom or Teams 

• Ensure adequate lighting in front of you (no backlighting that creates a silhouette) 

• Position your camera at eye level so you’re not looking down 

• Have pen and paper within reach but out of view (for taking notes) 

• Keep a glass of water nearby 

Prepare your materials: 

Before logging in, have ready: 

• List of questions to ask 

• Your calendar for any scheduling questions 

Create a professional user profile: 

• Use your real name as your Zoom/Teams name 

• Upload a professional headshot or use the same photo as your LinkedIn 

• Avoid generic or casual usernames 

Arrival: 

• Log in 5 minutes early and verify your audio and video are working 

• Greet the interviewer warmly as they arrive 

• Thank them for their time 

Camera and eye contact: 

• Sit back from the camera so your hands are visible (shows openness and engagement) 

• Look at the camera when speaking, not at the screen (this creates the illusion of eye contact) 

• Maintain good posture—slouching reads as disengagement 

• Keep appropriate distance from the camera (not too close, not too far) 

Body language: 

• Use natural hand gestures while speaking—it looks better and helps you stay engaged 

• Maintain an open posture (not crossed arms) 

• Smile and show enthusiasm 

• Nod to show you’re listening and engaged 

Audio: 

• Speak clearly and at a normal pace 

• Avoid eating or chewing gum during the interview 

• If there’s an audio issue, address it immediately: “I’m sorry, I didn’t hear that clearly. Could you repeat it?” 

• Mute yourself if there’s background noise and wait for a good moment to unmute 

Managing technical issues: 

• If your video cuts out momentarily, stay calm and try reconnecting 

• If you can’t get video back, switch to phone audio: “I’m having technical issues with video. Can we continue with just audio?” 

• Stay professional and don’t waste time troubleshooting—keep the conversation moving 

Close email and other applications: 

Your notifications can pop up on screen or distract you. Close everything except what you need for the interview. 

Use a professional Zoom or Teams name: 

Don’t use “PartyPerson47” or “Coffee_Enthusiast.” Use your real name. 

Be mindful of your background: 

If you don’t have a professional background available, use a virtual background in Zoom or Teams. Keep it simple and professional. 

Take notes visibly: 

It’s fine to jot down notes during the interview. This shows engagement and helps you remember details for your thank-you note. Just make sure it doesn’t distract you from listening. 

Manage lag: 

If there’s a slight delay in the video, pause slightly longer before speaking to avoid talking over the interviewer. It’s awkward but happens with virtual calls. 

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours. In the email, reference specific things from your conversation to show you were engaged and listening.