5 Powerful Tips to Ace an Online Interview

Effective Online Interview Hacks

An online interview is an interview that utilizes an online video chat or call platform. It exploded in popularity as the digital world has become one of the main portals for employment all around the globe.

Considering the massive number of applicants being interviewed online, it’s extremely necessary for you to know the formula for success in an online interview. Below are six sure-fire tips to ace any online interview.

1. Prepare Your Most Important Tool

Preparation is like the act of putting the final 10% of effort to whatever you are about to do (90% has been the work you have done and your past job experience). This tip is not only about the obvious tips like preparing your devices, making sure your internet connection is reliable and finding a good spot to sit/stand during the interview. We are talking about preparing the most essential tool for the interview... which is you. Follow the preparation steps below:

• Do a test drive. Record a video of yourself simulating an online interview and responding to possible questions that could be thrown at you (especially the tricky ones). This will give you immediate, virtual feedback. Doing so will give you an idea of how to present your best self to your interviewer. This will prevent you from manifesting unnecessary behaviors and mannerisms that make you look unprofessional.
• Visualize your desired outcome. This will boost your confidence and it is a proven fact amongst high performers and athletes that visualizing increases your chances of success.
• While waiting for the interview to take place, close your eyes and take a few deep breaths. This will calm your mind and nerves.

2. Project Confidence With Your Body Language

Body language is a huge indicator when marketing yourself for success. It will indirectly set up an impression that you are trustworthy, responsible, and confident with your skillset and knowledge. Follow the steps below to project confident body language.

Here’s what you should do:

• Keep your head and chin up, but not too high as to look over the person.
• Use hand gestures when trying to express an idea or thought.
• Roll your shoulders backward and move your chest slightly forward. You should feel yourself sitting/standing upright with your abdomen engaged.
• Make eye contact naturally with the person especially for important points you are emphasizing.

What not to do:

• Avoid crossing your arms
• Avoid making negative facial expressions like smirking
• Avoid fidgeting or moving around if seated in a chair
• Avoid touching your face or neck as this projects a sense of nervousness and fear

3. Be More Articulate: Speak Like a Pro

Stuttering and hesitant statements or using a lot of fillers like “um”, “aggh”, etc. may hamper your success. You have to make sure your articulation is on point.

• Basic tongue-twisters are good speech workouts. (e.g. “Six sleek swans swam swiftly southwards.”)
• Limit overuse of words and phrases that may express uncertainty. (e.g. I guess, I think, maybe). You are entitled to your opinion.
• Observe articulate speakers and mimic their style and strategies. An example of an articulate person is Barack Obama.

4. Address Anxiety and Fear (Before and During The Interview)

Anxiety is a total buzzkill to your spontaneity and mental focus. Whenever anxiety knocks on the door, do this:

• Once you catch yourself becoming fearful or anxious, you may have the tendency to speak faster than usual and you may even lose your concentration. Pay attention to your tone and speak a little bit slower. Be mindful.
• Breathe in and out slowly. Focus your conscious breathing on your body - this can help you bring your attention back to the present moment.

5. The Power of Colour Psychology: Dress Your Way to Success

Colour has power. There are reasons why companies hire Colour Psychologists.

• Black clothing goes with everything, and that includes your success in an interview. Research has shown that colour black is perceived by others as an indicator of prestige, power, seriousness, and intelligence.
• Blue, especially navy, is your friend. Blues convey feelings of trust and confidence – great qualities for an interviewer.
• Red is for attention.. Red clothing has been shown to make the wearer more persuasive. You don’t necessarily have to wear red clothing from head to toe, a red tie or a red top is sufficient enough to stand out.

Good luck in your next interview. Put your best foot forward, stay positive and be proud of your achievements.

“Success occurs when opportunity meets preparation.” - Zig Ziglar