Virtual Interview Etiquette, In-Person Tips

Graduation is finally in the rearview mirror and it’s time to start looking for a job. And new college graduates have undoubtedly had their share of struggles this past year. From adjusting to virtual classrooms to experiencing internship and networking opportunities. A job interview today may occur face to face in an office or coffee shop—or remote. When researching virtual interview etiquette or preparing to meet in-person, here are some tips to help recent graduates shine (these apply whether its the first or fifth job interview).

Virtual Interview Etiquette

There is no excuse for not being prepared. You have had a year to perfect the virtual experience. By now you should be keenly aware of the do’s and don’ts of a virtual meeting. It’s important to choose a quiet place where you will not be worried about interruptions. A place where you can be seen in good lighting (it’s worth the expense of purchasing a good light source) with the light in front of you. Natural lighting, such as a brightly lit window, is always helpful. 

Be Camera Ready  

A few virtual interview etiquette on-camera reminders: position your camera so you are not looking up or down but straight into the lens. Take a look at the space behind you and make sure there are no dishes or laundry in the background. If you will be sharing material, have it ready and waiting on your computer. Do a pre-interview microphone and technology check and look at yourself on the monitor. Dress from head to toe, not just from the waist up. If you are planning on wearing earbuds, make sure your jewelry doesn’t interfere with the mic cord. It appears more professional when you use your computer, rather than your smartphone, for an important job interview or meeting.

Make a Good Impression

The virtual meeting may be the first step to a future job, and the next meeting could potentially be in the office or conducted over a meal. Make a first good impression by asking thoughtfully curated questions. Consider time zones if you are interviewing in a different state or country. And make sure to double-check you are both on the same page when it comes to the meeting start time. 

Once you are together, ask about collaboration tools and communication preferences. Inquire about the career path of the particular job and ask if there is room for growth. Also ask about the company’s corporate culture and dress code. Feel free to inquire about the next steps and when you can expect to hear back. Virtual interviews often expedite the hiring process by vetting those who are better candidates. The more you learn, the better chance you have of deciding if the job is a potential fit for you, as well as it allows your employer to observe your motivation and communication style. Admittedly, these tips are the same as you would be using in a face to face interview, minus the awkward greeting and post-pandemic contact issues.

The Face to Face Interview

Up until the pandemic, shaking hands was a customary ritual, meant to be a symbol of good faith, as well as a gesture of confidence and respect. For the past year handshakes and physical contact of any kind was discouraged in a social setting with strangers and people outside of your pod. Now that the vaccine is doing its job and people are getting out once again, you are likely to be offered a handshake. It’s a personal decision on whether you want to shake another person’s hand and you can choose to refrain if you do it properly. People are understanding of the real and still existent fear of germs and a fist bump may continue to be the greeting of choice.

However, if the potential employer reaches out their hand, do what is most comfortable for yourself, but remember, it may make for an awkward first impression. The CDC has loosened its guidelines for fully vaccinated individuals. However, there is still a bigger risk for those who have not been vaccinated, for whatever reason.

Be Prepared

The job candidate should watch the comfort level of the interviewer and follow their lead. Most offices have dropped the mask requirement but it’s not a give in and it’s better to have a mask handy if the office still suggests their guests wear one. If the interviewer is not wearing theirs, feel free to ask if it’s alright if you remove yours, as well. There has never been a better time to ask thoughtful questions you may have only wondered about in the past. Among them, before you go in for the initial interview, ask what their Covid protocol is so you are prepared and not taken by surprise when you get to the office.

If you are asked if you have been vaccinated, be prepared to answer honestly. Employers, however, must make sure they are asking this question appropriately and for the right reasons. According to shrm.org, “Employers may require that new hires be vaccinated by the first day of work, provided they accommodate those who can’t receive the vaccine for disability- or religious-based reasons, Rashby said.” (Carolyn Rashby, an attorney with Covington & Burling in San Francisco.)

In-Person Etiquette

In the office, keep a respectful distance, ask the interviewer where they would like you to sit in the interview, and show respect for everyone you meet. Understand that this is a new time for everyone and each individual is reentering a new work environment after being remote for the past year. As is the case with virtual interview etiquette, preparation ahead of time is key in-person as well. Dress your best and arrive 5-minutes early. Put away your cell phone and any other distractions and give your interviewer your complete attention. Get ready to ask intelligent questions and have thoughtful answers prepared. Remember to be yourself and also, don’t forget the thank you note. Be sure to follow up via email within one business day.

For more information check out The Protocol School of Texas. You may also like The Value of Soft Skills When Interviewing for a Job. For more of Diane’s etiquette tips read her posts on Inc., subscribe to her articles on The Huffington Post, “like” The Protocol School of Texas on Facebook, and follow her on Pinterest, Instagram and Twitter.