Written by Michelle Sears, Talent Acquisition Manager at The Jonus Group
With over a decade of experience helping professionals prepare for interviews, Michelle has coached thousands of candidates to succeed in today’s remote-first job market. These expert-backed tips will help you present yourself confidently, professionally, and authentically during your next video interview.
1. Research the Company and Your Interviewer
One of the most important steps in preparing for a virtual job interview is understanding the company and the person interviewing you. Start by reviewing the company’s website, LinkedIn page, and recent news coverage. Pay special attention to their mission, values, and culture as these will help you tailor your responses to align with their goals.
Next up, but equally important, research the interviewer. A quick look at their LinkedIn profile can give you insight into their background, role at the company, and any shared experiences or interests. Mentioning a mutual connection or referencing their professional journey can help build genuine rapport early in the conversation.
2. Set the Tone with a Smile and Small Talk
Virtual interviews can feel a bit formal or stiff—but you can ease into the conversation with a warm, friendly approach. Begin with a smile and a relaxed greeting. Instead of diving straight into business, start with light small talk to help build rapport.
For example:
“How’s your week going so far?”
“I saw on LinkedIn that your team just launched a new project—congrats!”
“I appreciate you taking time to meet today, especially on a Monday morning!”
These small exchanges can humanize the experience and make you stand out as someone who communicates well, even over a screen.
3. Prepare Questions, But Stay Present
Having a few thoughtful questions ready shows genuine interest, but don’t rely on a script. Be present in the moment. Listen carefully and let your curiosity guide follow-up questions.
Avoid asking things easily found online, like “What does your company do?” Instead, ask:
“What are the team’s biggest priorities over the next 6 months?”
“How does your team typically collaborate in a remote environment?”
“What does success look like in this role after 90 days?”
These questions show you’ve done your homework and are already thinking about how you’ll contribute.
4. Make Eye Contact and Master Virtual Interview Etiquette
Eye contact is trickier in a virtual setting, but it's crucial. To simulate direct eye contact, look at the camera—not the screen—when speaking. This gives the impression you’re engaged and confident.
Other virtual etiquette tips:
Test your tech beforehand: Ensure your internet connection, webcam, and microphone are working.
Minimize distractions: Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a neutral background.
Dress professionally: Wear the same type of attire you would for an in-person interview.
Also, avoid interrupting, especially on Zoom or Teams, where slight lags happen. Wait a beat before responding so the interviewer can finish speaking.
5. Ask for Feedback (Tactfully)
If appropriate, consider asking for feedback at the end of the interview. It doesn’t have to be direct or confrontational... you can try something like:
“Is there anything else you’d like me to expand on?”
“Do you have any hesitations about my fit for the role that I can help clarify?”
This shows self-awareness and a desire to grow, which can leave a strong final impression.
6. End with Confidence and Clarity
As you conclude, thank the interviewer sincerely and reiterate your enthusiasm for the opportunity. Be sure to ask about next steps:
“What’s the timeline for next steps?”
“Should I expect to hear from someone directly, or will there be a follow-up email?”
If a concern arose during the interview, such as a skill gap, reiterate how your transferable skills or learning ability would help you bridge that gap. Confidence, clarity, and positivity are key to leaving a lasting impression.
Final Thoughts
Virtual interviews don’t have to feel impersonal or overwhelming. With the right preparation and mindset, you can stand out from other candidates, regardless of location. Research the company, connect with the interviewer, demonstrate professionalism on camera, and stay engaged throughout.
Whether it’s on Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or another platform, these virtual job interview tips will help you shine in today’s competitive market.
