Online interviews are becoming increasingly popular as technology advances. Most interviewers prefer to meet an applicant in-person, but occasionally an interview must be done online. At Reynolds and Reynolds, we understand not all of our applicants are within reasonable traveling distance to our facilities. For this reason, we offer online interviews if necessary.

When interviewing by video chat, you still must present yourself as poised and professional. This can be a challenge if you do not have experience using video chatrooms in a business setting. In order to impress your interviewer, here are a few things you’ll need:

A Plain Background

You don’t want distracting memorabilia hanging on the walls. If you can position yourself in front of a plain wall or background, do so.

Good Lighting

As we have seen in scary movies, sitting in the dark can appear eerie. Let the interviewer see your face by finding flattering lighting. You’ll want to avoid fluorescent or discolored lights, and instead find natural light. There is typically a video test setting in chatrooms that allows you to see yourself from the interviewer’s perspective. Using this can help you decide where the best lighting is located.

A Little Distance

Sitting too close or too far from the screen can seem unnatural. You’ll want to be back far enough to see the top of your head and just below your shoulders, roughly where your heart is located.

Appropriate Attire

Sometimes an outfit will look unprofessional if you can only see from the chest up. Test how you would look on your computer screen with the video test setting, and find an outfit that is flattering. Also, remember to be dressed professionally from your head to your toes. Pajama bottoms may be comfy, but it is common for interviewers to ask you to stand to make sure you are dressed appropriately.

Peace and Quiet

If you’re planning on interviewing in your room or in a dorm, let your neighbors know to keep noise levels down. You want to be in a quiet, private area where you won’t be distracted and the interview won’t be interrupted.

A Test Run

You may accidentally find yourself in an area with a weak WiFi signal or bad sound quality. Performing a test-run with a friend or colleague before the interview can help uncover these issues.

Eye Contact

During your interview, eye contact can be a challenge. Making eye contact with your interviewer on the screen will make it appear as though you are looking down. Look at the camera when you are speaking to give the illusion you are looking them in the eye.

If you are able, make sure you meet with someone from the company in-person during the interview process. In-person introductions and conversations can have a greater impact on your interviewer. If you can’t, don’t worry. There have been many people at our facilities and others that had to go through the hiring process entirely online.

During any interview, be relatable, smile, and show the employer you are a great fit for their company. An employer can sense a team player from a mile (or a thousand miles) away.