Imagine receiving a call from an unknown number. For a moment, you’re tempted to let it ring, but out of curiosity, you pick it up. On the other end, a pleasant voice greets you by name and politely asks for just 60 seconds of your attention. The voice then confidently declares, “I am certain I can solve the issue that’s been troubling you for a while.”
Surprised, you ask, “How can you be so sure?”
The caller’s confidence intrigues you, and the conversation stretches beyond the initial 60 seconds. By the end of the call, you’re wondering how such an unexpected moment could lead to something so impactful. The rest, as they say, is history.
The caller demonstrated the power of confidence, clear communication, and the ability to seize the moment, leaving a lasting impression.
This is exactly what you need to do during virtual interviews. Capture the interviewer’s attention within seconds using your voice, facial expressions, tone, and, most importantly, a powerful opening introduction. Making a lasting impression in a virtual setting requires a unique blend of technical preparedness, strong communication skills, and adaptability.
1. Technical Checks
- Prepare and test your equipment before the scheduled call: Check your video, microphone, and internet connection before the interview. Tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams have test features to ensure everything runs smoothly. A candidate in a recent Deloitte interview impressed recruiters by preemptively sharing a contingency plan for potential technical glitches, showcasing foresight and professionalism.
2. Professional Appearance and Environment
- Visual and audio setup: Ensure to dress up in full, though the camera only covers your upper half of the body but prepare for unplanned situations where you might need to stand up. Choose a private, distraction-free space except bathrooms. A software engineer shared their success story of nailing a Google interview after conducting it in a library study room for a quiet environment.
3. Engaging Communication and Body Language
- Active listening and energetic responses: To avoid miscommunication, listen carefully, pause to ensure the interviewer has finished speaking, and then respond thoughtfully. For example, candidates who maintain eye contact (by looking into the camera) and use expressive hand gestures tend to leave a stronger impression.
4. Closing Statement
- Prepare smart questions through detailed research: Study interviewers’ and company’s profile on LinkedIn to find business news, updates and corporate activities. Thoughtful, well-researched questions about the company’s recent achievements or plans demonstrate genuine interest.
5. Post-Interview Follow-Up
- Send a thank-you email or message to reinforce interest and your excitement about the role. A candidate made a strong impact as he sent a follow-up email along with additional information to a question that was asked to him during the interview. This helped him to stand out among applicants.
Netflix’s Hiring Practices
Netflix, known for its high hiring standards, revealed that candidates who prepare extensively for virtual interviews often perform better. They recommend having clear, concise answers and preparing to discuss past projects in detail. One successful candidate shared how they impressed interviewers by using visual aids, such as slides, to explain their achievements during a virtual interview.
Final Thoughts
Virtual interviews are here to stay. By combining technical preparation, professional presentation, and thoughtful engagement, candidates can create a memorable and lasting impression. As remote work continues to redefine job markets, mastering virtual interview skills can be a significant competitive advantage.
I’m Ruheena, as a Career Coach, I offer customized, actionable strategies tailored to your unique strengths and professional goals. Beyond resume crafting and interview tips, I specialize in confidence coaching, helping you transform self-doubt into self-assurance. Through targeted personal branding, and engaging content creation, I help you leverage LinkedIn to connect with key industry leaders and decision-makers ensuring you stand out in the digital landscape and gain visibility in your field.
