We’re living in an age where face-to-face interviews are almost becoming a thing of the past. With the rise of technology, more and more employers are opting to conduct interviews over video conferencing services like Skype or Zoom. While this may be a convenient option for employers, it can be a bit nerve-wracking for interviewees.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a first-time job seeker, there are a few do’s and don’ts that you should keep in mind when attending an online interview.

Do’s
• Do your research: Before you attend the interview, make sure you’ve done your due diligence and researched the company thoroughly. Have a good understanding of their mission, values and goals, as well as their current offerings and how you can fit into their organization.

• Dress the part: Even though it’s an online interview, you still want to make sure you’re dressed professionally. Wear a suit and tie, just like you would for a traditional face-to-face interview.

• Stay organized: Have all of your documents, including your resume, portfolio, and any other materials you may need for the interview, readily available and organized.

• Test your tech: Make sure your computer is in good working order and that you have a good internet connection. It’s also a good idea to test out the video conferencing service prior to the interview so you’re not scrambling the day of.

• Speak clearly: Speak clearly and use proper grammar and pronunciation. This may seem like a no-brainer, but you’d be surprised how many people forget to do this when they’re nervous.

Don’ts
• Don’t be late: Just like a traditional face-to-face interview, you don’t want to be late for an online interview. Make sure you’re on time and ready to go.

• Don’t forget to smile: Even though the interviewer can’t see your body language, it’s important to smile and make eye contact with the camera. This will aid in establishing a connection with the interviewer.

• Don’t be too casual: Just because you’re not in a traditional setting doesn’t mean you can be too casual. Don’t use slang or overly familiar language.

• Don’t forget to ask questions: An online interview is a great opportunity to ask questions. Don’t forget to prepare a few questions in advance to show you’re interested in the position and the organization.

• Don’t forget to follow up: After the interview, make sure you send a thank you email. This will help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your interest in the position.

By keeping these do’s and don’ts in mind, you’ll be able to present yourself in the best light possible and increase your chances of landing the job. Good luck!