Zoom Through A Zoom Interview Like A Pro!

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An increasing number of employers are switching from in-person interviews to video interviews, at least for the initial screening interviews/ part of the hiring process. Conducting interviews with the use of video conferencing software like Zoom, Google Meet, Skype, etc. adds a layer of convenience to the whole process, especially if the interview is for a remote job. In this article, we will give you all the information you need to give an amazing Zoom interview and convert the job opportunity. So let's begin!

What is a Zoom Interview?

Zoom is one of the most popular video conferencing software/platforms which allows users to connect over a voice or a video call. A Zoom interview then is a virtual interview/ video interview conducted using this platform/ software. Let's look at the few benefits of using this software, which has made it a staple for many businesses, organizations, and individuals alike. 

Benefits of using Zoom for a video interview

• The primary benefit of using Zoom is that the basic version is free to use for all, with a bunch of amazing features.
• The platform can efficiently be used to conduct video conference interviews across devices including laptops, computers, smartphones, tabs, etc. 
• This makes it extremely easy to schedule a Zoom meeting/ call and attend one, even on short notice.
• Zoom comes with numerous useful features like screen share, mute, recorder, chat box, multiple virtual backgrounds, etc.

Prepare for a Zoom interview in 3 simple steps

We all know about the pressure one feels when prepping for any job interview. And if it's a Zoom interview you are appearing for, the technical difficulty you might face, adds another layer of complexity. But the picture doesn't have to be grim if you cover all bases. Listed here are 3 essential steps to prepare for the interview. 

1. Download Zoom and start with the basics

The first step is to download the software if you haven't already and get familiar with it. Begin by creating an account on Zoom, make a note to use a professional email account and a proper screen name. Once you are logged in from your account, start playing around with the features and get familiar with the basics. 

2. Check the quality of hardware and internet connection

When prepping for any online/ video interview ensure that the hardware you are using, for example, the laptop/ device, camera, microphone, headset, etc is working right. To avoid any glitches on D-Day ensure that your devices/ tools are in top working condition, the sound quality/ video quality is good, and that the webcam is at eye level.  Make changes to the camera, sound, and video settings as needed. 

Another very important thing that you need for the interview is a strong internet connection to avoid any disruptions. So check the bandwidth, strength, and range of your connection beforehand. It is also a good idea to keep an ethernet cable handy, just in case.

3. Practice using Zoom

After you are familiar with the basics, the next step to preparing for the video job interview using Zoom is to practice. Schedule a mock online interview with a friend or family member to practice your with some common interview questions, and assess your body language, facial expressions, tone, pace, etc. Also, try a few professional backgrounds and see which one fits best. This whole process will help you get comfortable with Zoom which will further help you remain confident throughout the actual interview process.

These steps will help you prepare for any video conferencing interview and put your best foot forward. Moving on, let's discuss how to dress for video interviews and also review a few Zoom job interview tips to pave your way to success.

What to wear for a Zoom interview?

• Your video interview outfit must be similar to what you might have worn during an in-person interview. 
• Stick to professional attire or something that coincides with the respective company's culture. Check out the business attire requirements posted on the company website/ handbook, or enquire about the same from HR in the previous screening stage. 
• It is also a good idea to stick to solid colors and avoid extremely bright colors or something with a pattern that might cause strobing in the video. All in all, go for something simple (not distracting) yet formal. 
• Also, avoid wearing flashy accessories even if you feel they go with the outfit. The idea is to look professional, there will be plenty of occasions to dress for later on. 
• Another thing that you must take note of is your hairstyle. It is important to style your hair away from the face, such that it looks professional, and doesn't stick out or look too shabby.

Tips to perform well in a Zoom interview

Being prepared for the interview will take you a long way. But there are many other things that you must keep in mind when using video conferencing platforms for interviews. Don't worry it's not all that difficult. Just follow the Zoom/ virtual interview tips we have listed below, and you'll zoom through that interview like a pro!

• The first Zoom interview tip we have for you is to make sure your computer is updated. A lot of us forget about this minute detail which is essential to ensure that the Zoom platform works smoothly.
• When deciding on an interview space look for something sort of secluded or a quiet space, a place that has enough natural lighting, and is distraction-free. 
• Access the Zoom meeting link and log into the chatroom a few minutes early to ensure everything is working fine. This also makes a good impression on the interviewer. 
• Another Zoom interview tip to keep in mind is to look into the camera and maintain eye contact with the interviewer when speaking. Also, use confident and professional body language when presenting yourself. 
• The mute button can be a blessing for you if there are noise disturbances in your background. Whenever the interviewer is speaking it will be smart of you to turn the mute on, to avoid any disruption from your end. 
• It is extremely important for you to remain focused on what the interviewer is saying if you want to give a successful interview. Our Zoom job interview tip here would be to clear your screen and also de-clutter your desk/ physical space to remove distractions.
• Another way to remain focused is to keep a notepad handy and jot down all the important points there for quick reference whenever needed. 
• Usually, the interviewer is the meeting host, and they send you a Zoom link via email. Check the link to see who will be attending the meeting, that is, who will be the interviewer. It is then a good idea to do your homework/ research about them as well as the company before sitting for the interview.
• It is always good etiquette to thank the interviewers in the end, so do so. In the case of remote interviews/ Zoom interviews, you can also use the chatbox to leave thank-you notes to the interviewer.

If you keep these tips in mind and follow the preparation steps mentioned above to make the most of the opportunity. Mentioned ahead are a few mistakes that you should not make during these interviews. 

Mistakes to avoid during a Zoom interview 

• A common mistake many of us make is not turning the notification off on the device. If your notifications are turned on, they may pop mid-interview and distract you as well as the interviewer. 
• Another similar mistake many people end up making is not putting their smartphones on silent during the interview. You never know when someone might call or text you, and when a notification for either pops during the interview it will leave you distracted.
• A lot of us have a habit of fidgeting, either in the seat, with our hands, and feet, or playing with our nails or hair, etc. All of these are distracting practices you must strictly avoid making during the interview. They don't only distract the interviewer but make you seem unprofessional and unfocused. 
• One of the simplest things that many of us forget in the nervousness to get ready for the Zoom interview is to not charge our laptops. If your device runs out of battery mid-interview, you will need to abandon the process to charge it, or worse, the device might shut down and lead to disconnection before the interview is over.

Use the information mentioned in the article well and you will surely nail the interview in the head. 

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