AT LEAST FOR THE FORESEEABLE FUTURE, critical gateway interviews for coveted spots — like your first-choice academic program, a plum fellowship, or a hands-on career step — will be overwhelmingly virtual. True, remote interviews aren’t the perfect situation. You won’t get a sense of the physical place and the interviewer won’t get a sense of your personal “presence.” Still, you can project and read body language on-screen, convey your enthusiasm, and otherwise wrap a successful interview. Here are some tips for shining on-screen and getting the response you want.
Practice. Brainstorm likely questions and write down your answers, then practice what you’ll say. Once your answers sound confident and natural (not like you’re reciting a script), video your responses and tweak what could be better.
Role-play. Ask a teacher or mentor to help you rehearse the interview and give you constructive feedback.
Dress for success. Just as you would in an in-person interview, choose an outfit that shows your respect for the occasion. No need to overdo it — it’s most likely fine to go with the “business casual” outfit you’d wear to the National Conference College and Career Fair.
Research. Spend some time on the school’s or organization’s website and be prepared with thoughtful questions for your interviewer — questions that demonstrate your interest in and enthusiasm for this opportunity.
Build a background. The setting at your end of the camera doesn’t need to be impressively styled bookshelves, but it should be uncluttered and free of distractions and unnecessary noise.
Get tech ready. Make sure your internet connectivity is optimal and you’re comfortable with whatever platform you’ll be using (if not, practice using it with a friend). Set up for the interview in advance of the start time and troubleshoot any glitches (don’t stress about glitches that may happen during the interview — everybody has them and just power through).
Turn off distractions. Exile pets to another room and set your phone in airplane mode.
Be ready for your cues. When you get a cue, which could be “tell me about yourself” or “why do you want to come here or work here,” have a well-thought-out response that speaks to what a great fit you are for this opportunity.