How to prep for a seamless
virtual interview
Recruiting experts reveal their pro tips for perfecting your video conferencing skills.
You’ve just landed an online interview. Nicely done. The next hurdle is leaving a lasting impression over video. Luckily the best ways to pull off a successful virtual interview aren’t so different from the in-person variety. We spoke with a few job recruiters for their top tips on putting your best self out there, even if you’re not meeting IRL. Here’s what the experts have to say.
Look your best, at least from the shoulders up
While it may be tempting to rock your cozy chic look since you're at home, recruiters suggest displaying the same level of polish you would bring to an office. That means professional business attire, combed hair, brushed teeth and a washed face. “Dress business casual even if the company is casual,” says Silvia Chen, senior recruiter of a privately-held company. “The general rule is if you look the part, you feel the part. Interviewers will notice that you are making the effort as well.”
Another technique to look your best is to go with Studio Mode on your Galaxy Book Pro or Pro 360. It will brighten your face and smooth out any imperfections before the call.
Stage your background
Pay attention to the basics like lighting and background, as you would in any on-camera situation. “You should be mindful of the lighting,” says Phu Huynh, a New York-based recruitment manager. “Avoid sitting with an open window directly behind you, as light from outside will be distracting to your interviewer. Your camera should be propped at eye level (a stack of textbooks will do the trick). The space behind you should be clean and clear of clutter.”
As Silvia Chen puts it, “You want the interviewer to be focused on what you are saying, not the three loads of laundry behind you.” Also, lock the door if possible to prevent any accidental interruptions.
Do a tech trial run
The last thing you want to do is leave your recruiter hanging mid-conversation because your devices suddenly decided to disconnect. To get the jump on any computer or audio/video issues, schedule a mock interview with a friend a day or two earlier using the same video conferencing platform, whether that’s Microsoft Teams, Google Meet or Zoom. “If possible, use a headset,” advises Leo Paduch, a talent acquisition leader based in San Diego. Understated earbuds like the Galaxy Buds Pro offer a clean look while preventing distracting echoes on the other end. Plus, with its three built-in microphones and voice pickup unit, Buds Pro will let recruiters hear your every word in crystal-clear sound, which is tough to replicate if you’re using a built-in laptop mic. As part of your mock interview checklist, also make sure that your Buds are pairing properly with your laptop to avoid any last-minute Bluetooth snafus.
Above all else, Silvia Chen recommends having a backup plan for all the common issues. “You should ensure the interviewer has your mobile number in order to quickly continue the interview by phone,” she says.
Mind your onscreen body language
Though you may naturally feel inclined to glance at yourself in the smaller screen of your video call, looking directly into the camera can recreate the experience of in-person eye contact, establishing a level of trust and connection with your interviewer. “Try to put the video you are watching right under the camera so you are looking forward,” Leo Paduch says. This allows you to shift your eyes to your interviewer every now and then without looking down. To engage further, Phu Huynh adds that you should “allow yourself to naturally emote with your face and hand motions or gestures and sit with good posture."
*WiDi (Wireless Directly)-capable Windows 10 PC models and Windows 10 v.2004 or later are required for this feature.
Set yourself up for success
Whether it’s for capturing professional profile pictures or acing interviews, these Galaxy gadgets get the job done.
Galaxy S22 | S22+
Galaxy Tab S8 | S8+ | S8 Ultra
Galaxy Buds2
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