These days, there’s no such thing as a “traditional career path.” Between those first entering the job force and others navigating their way up the corporate ladder, the process of securing new opportunities looks way different than in years past.

Case in point, the prevalence of advanced computer software and the role virtual interviewing plays in employers vetting candidates. More and more, especially during the age of COVID-19, recruiters are utilizing platforms such as Zoom because of their ease, convenience and overall safety.

If you’ve made it to the next round post submitting your application and are gearing up for your first Zoom call with a hiring manager, CONGRATS! This is major, and although it might be hard not to, don’t freak. Below, keep reading for our top 9 video conferencing tips that’ll help you land your next big gig.

1. PRACTICE USING ZOOM.

Test out Zoom by video chatting with friends or even doing a mock interview to familiarize yourself with all its capabilities and get constructive feedback. 

TIP: Double-check that your laptop/desktop’s Zoom app is updated prior to logging on for your interview to avoid any delays.

2. GET DRESSED, FULLY DRESSED.

This may seem like a no-brainer, but seriously. Should you need to get up during the interview for any reason, the last thing your interviewer likely wants to see is your professional blouse or button-up paired with pajama pants. So when selecting what you’d like to wear, make sure to choose something that covers up both your top and bottom halves. 

TIP: Pick out your interview outfit the night before, so that you don’t feel super rushed!

3. FIND A BRIGHT, CLEAN, QUIET PLACE.

Remember you’re interviewing for a position you REALLY want. Put your best foot forward by creating an environment that’s brightly lit, cleaned up and quiet, so that your interviewer can clearly see and hear you without any distractions. 

TIP: If you live with others, including your family or roomies, let them know you plan on interviewing at a set date and time. This way, everyone around you will play his/her/their part to help you succeed. 

TIP: If need-be, consider downloading a virtual Zoom background and adding it to your meeting. 

4. USE A LAPTOP OR DESKTOP COMPUTER.

While Zoom does have a mobile app, opt to use your laptop/desktop computer over your phone for interviews. Doing so, you won’t have to worry about holding up a device and making sure it stays steady.

TIP: Don’t forget to charge your laptop, should you use one.

5. CLEAR OFF YOUR DESKTOP.

Closing out of everything on your desktop (besides Zoom) prior to your interview is always a good idea. If you’re asked to share your screen, for whatever reason, you’ll know there won’t be any “clutter” obstructing your interviewer’s view. 

TIP: Clean off your front-facing camera with a microfiber cloth to prevent any blurriness, too! 

6. PUT YOUR PHONE ON SILENT MODE.

The last thing you want to happen is a bunch of alerts, texts or phone calls coming through while you’re interviewing. Placing your phone on silent and/or “do not disturb” will help keep you focused!

7. USE THE MUTE BUTTON.

Aside from looking into the camera while you’re speaking, placing yourself on mute whenever you’re not speaking is another way to prevent your interviewer from getting distracted. 

8. WATCH YOUR BODY LANGUAGE.

Again, remember you’re interviewing for a position you REALLY, REALLY want. During your interview, show your confidence by sitting up tall with your hands in your lap when not speaking and your feet flat on the ground. As your interviewer’s speaking, feel free to use nonverbal cues like nodding and smiling to show you’re paying attention.

9. ASK QUESTIONS.

As with any interview, end by asking questions. These could be to gain clarification about the role at hand or to seek out extra information about the company’s culture or about what the interviewer likes most about said company.