How to Make a Strong First Impression in Virtual Interviews

In today’s job market, virtual interviews have become the norm rather than the exception. Whether due to global circumstances or the growing trend of remote work, employers and job seekers alike are increasingly relying on digital platforms to connect. In a virtual setting, first impressions are just as important—if not more so—than in-person meetings.

The challenge, however, is that virtual interviews come with their own unique set of dynamics. You don’t have the same face-to-face interaction, body language cues, or in-person presence to rely on. Therefore, making a strong first impression in a virtual interview requires a little extra effort and careful preparation.

In this blog, we’ll share valuable tips to help you stand out in virtual interviews and make an unforgettable first impression.

1. Test Your Technology Beforehand

One of the most crucial elements of a successful virtual interview is ensuring your technology works seamlessly. There’s nothing worse than being unprepared and facing technical difficulties at the start of an interview. To avoid this, do a complete check of your technology ahead of time.

• Video and Audio: Test your camera and microphone well in advance. Ensure your video is clear and positioned so that your face is well-lit and centred. You don’t want to be squinting or facing a dim screen.

• Internet Connection: A stable internet connection is crucial to avoid buffering or disconnection during the interview. Try to ensure you’re in a space with a strong Wi-Fi signal, and if necessary, use an Ethernet cable for a more reliable connection.

• Platform Familiarity: Ensure you are comfortable with the software or platform the interview will take place on (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, etc.). Familiarise yourself with its features, such as muting/unmuting yourself, screen sharing, and troubleshooting common issues like video/audio failure.

• Backup Plan: In case something does go wrong with your connection or device, make sure you have a backup plan. This could be a phone number or alternate way to connect in case you lose the video connection.

  
  

Doing these checks ahead of time will help you avoid last-minute panic and ensure that you start the interview on the right foot.

2. Choose the Right Environment

Your environment plays a significant role in making a good first impression. When preparing for a virtual interview, choose a quiet, clean, and professional space for the interview.

• Lighting: Natural light is your best friend. Position yourself in front of a window, if possible, so that your face is well-lit. Avoid sitting with a light source directly behind you, such as a window or bright lamp, as this can create a shadow and make you appear hard to see.

• Background: The background of your video is equally important. Choose a clutter-free area with minimal distractions. A plain wall, a tidy bookshelf, or a neat office space works well. If your environment isn’t ideal, consider using a virtual background that looks professional and unobtrusive.

• Noise: Ensure there is minimal background noise. Close windows, doors, and anything that may create distractions during the interview. If you’re in a shared space, let those around you know about the interview, so they can keep the noise levels down.

  
  

Creating a calm and professional environment signals to the interviewer that you’re organised, thoughtful, and respectful of their time.

3. Dress the Part

Just because your interview is virtual doesn’t mean you can dress casually. Dressing appropriately for the interview is an important part of making a good first impression, even in a virtual setting.

• Professional Attire: Choose professional clothing that fits well and makes you feel confident. If the job is more formal, consider wearing business attire (e.g., a suit or blazer). For a more casual role, opt for smart casual attire, but avoid anything too relaxed (e.g., t-shirts, hoodies, or casual shirts).

• Colour Choices: Stick to solid colours and avoid overly bright or busy patterns that might distract the interviewer. Neutral tones like navy, grey, or soft blues work well, as they are professional without being overpowering.

• Grooming: Pay attention to your grooming. Make sure your hair is tidy and your appearance is neat. A polished, well-groomed look will convey professionalism and attention to detail, which are qualities interviewers highly value.

  
  

By dressing appropriately, you show that you take the opportunity seriously and are committed to presenting yourself in the best possible light.

4. Prepare Your Answers, But Stay Flexible

In virtual interviews, as with in-person ones, preparation is key. Anticipating common interview questions and practising your responses will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.

• Understand the Role: Make sure you are clear on the job description, responsibilities, and the skills required. Be ready to explain how your experience and qualifications make you a strong fit for the role.

• STAR Technique: For behavioural questions, use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. This technique helps you stay on point and provides concrete examples of your skills and experience.

• Company Research: Know the company, its values, and its culture. Research recent news about the company and be prepared to discuss why you’re excited about the opportunity and how you can contribute to the organisation’s success.

  
  

While preparation is important, it’s equally vital to remain flexible during the interview. Virtual interviews can sometimes present unexpected challenges (e.g., a slight delay or a question that catches you off guard). Stay calm, take a moment if needed, and respond thoughtfully.

5. Maintain Eye Contact and Body Language

While virtual interviews lack the in-person interaction, body language still plays a significant role in how you’re perceived. Maintaining positive body language during the interview can help you establish a connection and convey confidence.

• Eye Contact: In a virtual interview, eye contact can be tricky. To create the effect of eye contact, look directly at the camera when speaking, not the screen. This gives the impression that you’re engaged and focused on the interviewer.

• Posture: Sit up straight and avoid slouching. Good posture conveys confidence and attentiveness. Avoid distractions like checking your phone or fidgeting with your hands or objects around you.

• Facial Expressions: Smile and nod to show that you’re actively listening. Express enthusiasm through your facial expressions to demonstrate that you’re genuinely engaged in the conversation.

  
  

Your body language—along with the tone of your voice—can leave a lasting impression on the interviewer, so be mindful of how you present yourself.

6. Communicate Clearly and Professionally

In a virtual interview, communication is key. Without the face-to-face interaction, it’s easy to misinterpret tone or miss non-verbal cues, so it’s important to be clear and intentional with your words.

• Speak Clearly: Make sure your voice is loud enough to be heard, but avoid speaking too quickly. Pausing to collect your thoughts before answering shows that you’re thoughtful and deliberate.

• Listen Actively: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and respond thoughtfully. If you don’t understand a question, it’s okay to ask for clarification.

• Be Concise: Virtual interviews are often shorter than in-person ones, so avoid rambling. Keep your answers succinct, but provide enough detail to showcase your skills and experiences.

  
  

Effective communication is one of the most important aspects of a virtual interview, so make sure to listen carefully and respond thoughtfully.

7. Follow Up with a Thank-You Note

After the interview, always send a follow-up email thanking the interviewer for their time and expressing your enthusiasm for the role. This gesture not only shows appreciation but also reinforces your interest in the opportunity.

• Personalise Your Message: Reference specific topics discussed during the interview to make your note more personal and memorable. It also shows that you were fully engaged during the conversation.

• Reiterate Your Interest: Use the thank-you note as an opportunity to express how excited you are about the role and the company.

  
  

A well-crafted thank-you email can leave a positive lasting impression, demonstrating professionalism and thoughtfulness.

Conclusion

Making a strong first impression in a virtual interview requires preparation, attention to detail, and a clear understanding of how to present yourself effectively online. From ensuring that your technology works seamlessly to presenting yourself professionally and engaging with the interviewer, every detail counts. By following these tips and putting your best foot forward, you can make a lasting, positive impression and significantly improve your chances of landing the job. Virtual interviews may be conducted through a screen, but the impression you make can be just as powerful as in-person interactions—if you approach them with the right mindset and preparation.

If you need assistance creating an impactful resume and cover letter, contact Adrienna, your Perth Resume Writing Specialist, at 0423 686 904 or email hello@adriennasresumes.com