As the coronavirus pandemic has brought the world to a standstill, many companies have adopted new online work strategies that promote productivity. Therefore, when you apply for that lucrative, long-term freelance writing job, chances are that the hiring manager will interview you through real-time video. While it may be difficult to stand out virtually, the right amount of preparation will give you an ace over your competition. The good news is that you can use the right tactics to get your foot in the door.

Here 5 tips that will help you nail your next virtual interview, and many more to come:

Test Your Technology
Having the right technology is the first step to a successful virtual interview. Employers can choose to use Skype, Zoom, or Google Hangouts to conduct online interviews. Avoid potential glitches by ensuring that your technology works seamlessly before the call. No matter your platform of choice, invest in a worthy webcam and microphone to avoid muffled audio or grainy visuals. Finally, be on a stable internet connection on the day of the meeting as nothing stifles a conversation like a call that drops mid-persuasion.

Set the Scene
A professional-looking backdrop and a clean, organized space communicate professionalism during the call. The last thing you want is to have your interview amidst clutter or a messy background. This will send across the wrong message, and will make it hard to convince your employer that you are a detail-oriented person. Ideally, your computer should be set up near a window (located in front of, or next to you), and in front of a blank background. This should be your focal point. Most importantly, the natural light will illuminate the room and offer the best presentation.

Prepare but Don’t Memorize
As with any other type of interview, preparation is key. While there is no way to know the questions that the interviewer will ask, preparing will give you an added advantage.

You should be ready to answer questions like:
– Why are you leaving your current job?
– What are your salary requirements?
– What are your weaknesses?
– Why should we hire you?

You can jot down ideas that will help you answer the questions but do not memorize the answers. The goal is to let the conversation flow naturally so that it does not feel forced or rehearsed.

Dress the Part
Projecting professionalism goes beyond giving the right answers. Even when attending a virtual interview, you should dress just like you would at an in-person meeting. For your outfit, chose neutral colors that will not wash you out under harsh lighting. Also, keep the accessories to a minimum as you do not want them to sway your employer’s attention from your expertise.

Be Yourself
Recruiters and interviewers have the task of determining whether you are a good fit for the company culture. As this can be hard to determine without any physical interaction, it is important to let your personality shine through. Give them a reason to push you to the second phase of the interview by showing how you can be useful to the organization.

Bonus Tip: Follow-up immediately
Send a personalized thank you email to everyone you met 24-hours after the interview. This will show that you value their time, and also allow you to resell your strengths. Remember to keep your email memorable and concise.

Ultimately, the key to nailing your virtual interview is preparation. Everything from your technology to the answers you give should help you stand out from the crowd. Put in the time to improve and the pay-off will be landing the writing job that you desire.

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• How to Get Video and Podcast Interviews to Promote Your Book! – by KM Robinson
• How to Score Prestigious, Top-Name Interviews! By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant
• Petting Porcupines: How to Keep a Tough Interview Going By Deborah Jeanne Sergeant

Louisa Eunice is a freelance writer who has experience writing B2B and B2C content for a variety of audiences and publications. She also writes short-form marketing content for an array of unique brands. Some past organizations Louisa has worked with include TapDesk, Captive Network, and many more.

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