10 Best Online Interview Tips to Help You Land a Job

The world, as we know it, is growing more dependent on the Internet through the years. When the pandemic hit, the global digital transformation came at full speed. Companies in Malaysia adjusted their systems, processes, and work arrangements to cater to health protocols and safety measures. The workplace faced a technological revolution — and most changes are here to stay.

In the corporate world, employers continue to utilise technology in several ways, including recruitment. Thus, even traditional face-to-face interviews have turned into video calls. With the widespread use of apps like Zoom and Google Meet in the recruitment process, it is now crucial for jobseekers like you to be armed with the best online interview tips available. Read on to learn more.

Navigating the ropes of virtual job interviews

First of all, congratulations on receiving an invite for an online job interview! You are now one step closer to getting your dream job. If you have not yet experienced a virtual interview, it is never too late to prepare. As long as you understand how these online interview tips can work for you, you can definitely ace the process.

Types of virtual interviews

When you are invited to an “online interview”, you might immediately expect a traditional video call. However, there are actually two different types of virtual interviews, and it is crucial for you to know which kind you should anticipate.

Live interviewing

Live interviewing is like a traditional face-to-face interview; the only difference is that it is conducted virtually. Employers schedule a virtual meeting with you to interview you about your skills, experience, and achievements related to your job. They usually assess how you answer specific questions and how competent you are for the job. 

Pre-recorded videos

Due to a surge in applicants, some employers may use this method to filter out jobseekers who qualify for the next screening. The hirer will send a link to an interview page, where you can record your answers. Answering pre-recorded videos is more than just filling out a resume template, so go the extra mile to research the company and the role. As with all interviews, give your best to move on to the next stage of the recruitment process. 

Now that you know the two types of virtual interviews, here are online interview tips to help you prepare.

Online interview tips and tricks

1. Download and learn the app

Different employers prefer different apps; the most popular virtual call apps include Google Meet, Skype, and Zoom. 

Once your employers schedule an interview, make sure to practise using the app they want to use to avoid unnecessary difficulties. For instance, if the interviewer sends you a Zoom link. If you are unfamiliar with the app, search for online Zoom interview tips to help you ace the process. When you are familiar with the tool you are using, you can quickly maximise the features for a seamless virtual interview experience.

Right before the interview, check if your app is up-to-date and running. Go online and sign in at least 15 minutes before the start to check if the app is working perfectly and if your internet connection is stable.

2. Use the best gadgets available

You probably have a desktop or laptop available — either is great for online interviews. If the interviewer wants to share documents with you, you will have an easier time accessing these on a proper computer. 

Whether you are taking your interview from your phone or computer, make sure that it has enough space for the app to function well. Test your webcam and microphone; ensure that the interviewer can see you and hear you clearly. If poor lighting is affecting how you are seen on camera, find a better, well-lit area in your home, or place a desk lamp in front of your device.

Given that you have fully charged your phone or laptop, what would you do if your device suddenly malfunctions in the middle of an interview? Similar to having an extra pen during an exam, have an extra device on standby in case you experience some technical difficulties.

3. Secure your Internet connection

It would help if you had a good Internet connection to prevent lagging or hanging during the interview. On the day of your interview, you can test your Internet speed and ensure that it will not cause delays during the call.

Also, it would be best to have a reserved load credit from your telecommunications provider to use mobile data for emergencies. This way, if your WiFi fluctuates, you can still proceed with your mobile data.

4. Prioritise your online interview

It may be tempting to slip in your online interview between other tasks, especially since you have the convenience of location. However, you also need to prepare for your interview and give it ample time. 

Clear your schedule; plot the call in your planner if you tend to forget things. Also, check if you have other conflicting schedules that are just as important. Avoid getting too excited about the interview that you forget other responsibilities that may conflict with your schedule.

5. Dress professionally

Here is an obvious tip on what to wear for an online interview: wear your most presentable shirt or blouse that makes you look the perfect candidate for the job. Want to keep things simple throughout the day? You can put on a blazer or coat over a breezy top — just make sure your shirt is tidy enough. 

Even if the job interview is conducted over camera or video, it still helps to dress for the part. Prepare for it as if you are actually going to the office and meeting the employers. Remember, first impressions last, so it will be best if you look like a competent employee who can accomplish the task and responsibilities they will assign to you.

Dress up your background, as well. The interviewer may ask you to put on a specific virtual background, but if you do not receive instructions about this, take the initiative to blur your backdrop to avoid distractions. Alternatively, you can pick a plain background or a background that shows off an office space

6. Find a quiet place for the interview

You do not want unnecessary disturbances to ruin your job interview. Unexpected noises may cause distractions that can ruin the mood of the interview. Make sure that the place is quiet to communicate with the employers properly.

Leave a sign by the door informing the rest of your household that you will be in a video call. Take the call from your room or another enclosed space to have some privacy. If you are taking it from the living room, ask your family members for some quiet during your interview.

7. Research the company and their hiring needs

Familiarise yourself with the company’s interests and reputation. To be the best candidate, you must know what qualities the employer is looking for. If you lack qualifications, think of an asset you have to compensate for this.

For example, a company might require you a specific number of years of work experience relevant to the job. You can be honest in the number of years you have, but assure them that the quality of experience you have had is tantamount to what they need. 

8. Show off your skills, talents, and achievements that are relevant to the job

Interviews are the best time to showcase yourself! Impress your employers with what you can offer based on your experiences relevant to the job. If you have no work experience, you can show yourself as someone motivated to do the job. Be yourself!

9. Practice, practice, practice

Feeling some jitters, even if it’s not a face-to-face interview? Prepare answers for standard hiring questions beforehand, which you can recall during the actual interview. Feeling shy? Try recording yourself so you can be aware of your tone, how you enunciate, and even your posture. It’s normal to be nervous! The best way to address it is to prepare. 

You can also use JobStreet’s Interview Practice Tool. This free online tool lets you access common interview questions, gives you interview tips, and records your answers so that you can review them until you are confident enough.

10. Be confident

Trust yourself that you can ace this interview! Remember that the interviewer scheduled a meeting with you because you have the qualifications to become a potential employee. As long as you prepare for your interview wholeheartedly, be confident that you can present yourself well. And if not? There are always more opportunities out there. 

Armed with these tips for acing your virtual job interview, you can now be confident when you go on your job hunt. At JobStreet, we are happy to help and guide you on your job interviews, be it on an on-site interview or a virtual interview with your future employer. Create or update your If you already have a JobStreet profile so that the suitable employers can find you faster. For more tips on job hunting, visit our Career Resources page.