16 Things to Avoid During Your Virtual Interview
Zoom interviews have become a ubiquitous part of our professional lives, making it crucial to know the do's and don'ts to ensure a successful meeting. While there are plenty of tips for what to do during a Zoom interview, it's equally important to be aware of what you should never do. You’d be surprised by the things that happen in Zoom interviews!
Here are 16 things to avoid at all costs during your next virtual interview:
Avoid Over-the-Top Backgrounds: While custom Zoom backgrounds can be fun, avoid overly distracting or inappropriate backgrounds that could divert attention from you and your qualifications.
Don't Multitask: Avoid checking your phone, replying to emails, or working on unrelated tasks during the interview. Give the interviewer your full attention.
Never Be Late: Punctuality matters in virtual interviews just as it does in-person. Log in a few minutes early to ensure everything is working correctly.
Don't Interrupt: Wait for the interviewer to finish speaking before you respond. Interrupting can be seen as impolite and impatient.
Avoid Technical Issues: Test your equipment and internet connection before the interview. Technical problems can disrupt the flow and make you appear unprepared.
Don't Mumble: Speak clearly and at an appropriate volume. Mumbling or speaking too softly can make it difficult for the interviewer to understand you.
Never Dress Inappropriately: Dress as if you were attending an in-person interview. Avoid clothing that is too casual, distracting or flashy. Don't Show Up in a Robe. While it sounds like a joke, but this has quite literally happened to us! While it may be tempting to prioritize comfort, like gym clothing or an oversized sweatshirt - showing up in something that doesn’t send professional or polished vibes sends something else — the wrong message about your commitment to the interview and the role in front of you.
Don't Eat or Drink Loudly (or at all): Eating during an interview is unprofessional, and the sounds of chewing or slurping can be distracting. If you must have water nearby, use a quiet glass or bottle.
Avoid Rambling: Keep your responses concise and on-topic. Rambling can make it challenging for the interviewer to follow your points.
Always Maintain a Professional Tone: Maintain a professional tone and avoid using slang, profanity, or offensive language.
Forgetting to return politeness and niceties. They ask how your weekend was? Ask how theirs was! They smile, you smile. Simple etiquette goes a long way.
Don't Forget Eye Contact: Maintain eye contact with the camera to create a sense of connection. Looking at your own image on the screen can be distracting.
Avoid Overconfidence: While confidence is essential, avoid coming across as arrogant or dismissive of the interviewer's questions or opinions.
Being in an Inappropriate Space: No William Sonoma Tours. The truth is we had interview with people while they are in taxis, walking around a store, or even in a car with 3 other people headed to a concert. We have never given those people a call back. Walking around a store, or in another environment that isn’t a proper one during your interview is distracting and unprofessional. Stay in a quiet, well-lit space.
Never Forget to Follow Up: After the interview, always send a thank-you email to express your gratitude and reiterate your interest in the position. Failure to do so can leave a negative impression.
Avoid Distracting Backgrounds: There shouldn’t be a fan flapping over your head with the camera looking upward, or a TV with CNN on a loop on the wall behind you. Avoid having your bathroom door propped open behind you, or a dog barking on the couch next to you. Those kinds of simple things seem common sense but are not always. We notice that you are sitting on your bedroom floor and your dresser is a mess, and if you are in your kitchen and have all your baking equipment out. Remember - this is a professional conversation for a job - not a chit chat with your favorite aunt.
In a competitive job market, making a positive impression during a Zoom interview is crucial. By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can present yourself as a professional and increase your chances of landing the job you desire.