Virtual Interviews

• Download Software: Ensure you have downloaded relevant software and are prepared with the correct link.
• Test the Software: Determine if you will be able to use a virtual background.
• Check your Surroundings: Surroundings are important! Set yourself up for success by selecting a quiet location, free from distractions and unprofessional images.
  • Reserve an interview room in Career Development – kogodcareers@american.edu
• Prepare with Notes: Write important words or phrases on a sticky note above your camera.
• Be Aware of Eye Contact: It is different to maintain eye contact with a camera. Practice!
• Interview Panel: Prepare for more than one person to join the call. Do not let this catch you off guard.
• Industry Research: Treat this as a regular interview and do thurough industry research.
• Understand the Position: Treat this as a regular interview and go with a comprehensive understanding of the job posting.
• Prepare Thoughtful Questions: Come prepared with 3-4 questions for the hiring manager.
• Say Thank you: Send a thank you note within 24 hours to show your interest and demonstrate follow through.
• AI: Use AI to prepare for the interview, help you generate mock interview questions, and conduct industry and company research. Do NOT use AI or read from AI during the interview. Recruiters will know!

Many companies will NOT allow you to have more than one shot to record your answer. You must prepare. Below are 10 top tips to help you in this process.

• Include stories in your response
  • Saying that you’re a “hard worker” or you “pay attention to detail” isn’t as powerful as telling a story that proves it. Share a time in your life when you demonstrated the skill or attribute you’re talking about.
• Pay special attention to the hook
  • The first sentence is key, as it sets the tone and you’ll want to engage your audience so they stick with you until the end. Don’t script your entire response, but know what you plan to say right at the start.
• Practice your response
  • Rehearsing out loud will improve your delivery and prevent rambling. Time 3-5 rehearsals and take out unnecessary details.
• Check your surroundings
  • Find a quiet place to record. Make sure your background and desk are tidy and distraction-free. Dress neatly and professionally.
• Speak slowly, clearly and smile
  • Technology places an extra barrier between you and your audience. Speak just a bit more slowly than you would normally, really use your lips and jaw to over-enunciate, and relax your facial expression, even smiling when appropriate.
• Vary your pitch
  • Your voice should rise and fall naturally and conversationally as you speak. A lively, energetic delivery is preferable to a flat, monotone delivery.
• Check lighting and framing
  • Place a lamp in front of you to light your face. Avoid lighting that is too harsh from above or behind you. We should see your face and tops of your shoulders in the screen’s “frame.”
• Practice eye contact
  • Talk directly to the camera lens, since that’s the virtual equivalent of engaging people eye-to-eye and connecting with them through the screen.
• Record a rehearsal or two
  • Record one of your final rehearsals, either in Quinncia or in Zoom; maybe even share with a friend. Seeing yourself will reveal places you can improve.
• Take a deep breath and imagine talking to a specific person.
  • Calm your nerves by taking a deep breath. Imagine you’re talking to someone specific who might be interested in what you have to say. If you can picture an actual person, you’ll appear friendlier and more engaging.

Kogod has some pictures that you can download to use for your background.. Download a few below or check out the Kogod Zoom & American University Zoom page for more!