The key to successful online interviewing is preparing well in advance. As more and more companies lean towards online interviewing and working remotely, online meetings and interviews have become common practice.

Some positions may require a combination of in-person and virtual interviews. A virtual interview carries just as much weight as an interview conducted in person. Being well prepared is key.

Here are a few quick tips to help you succeed in your next virtual interview.

  1. Making Sure You Are Connected

First and foremost, make sure you have a good internet connection. It is an absolute must. If you have a bad internet connection, your interview is going to fail. If you do not have a great connection, then ensure you have an alternate place to go to with a good connection to conduct your interview. With that being said, make sure you are at least 10 minutes ready before the interview. That will ensure everything is in place, including the equipment you will use for the interview, e.g., laptop or phone. Test all your equipment at least a couple of days before the interview; try connecting with a friend or family member to ensure it’s all in working order.

  1. Neutral Background & Distractions

Choosing a background is crucial, paying careful attention to the room’s surroundings and cleanliness. A home office, kitchen table, or living area full of clutter becomes a distraction to the interviewer, which connotes information about you and none of which is good.

Ensure that your place of choice for the interview is also a quiet space where you will not have anyone, or anything disrupt your interview. That includes pets and children. You want to be fully engaged with the interviewer; you want to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible without any awkwardness.

  1. Dressing the Part

Just because you are in the comfort of your home, coffee shop, or wherever does not mean you can slack off on appearance. Dress as if you were attending an in-person interview, keeping your look clean and professional. Presentation is everything, just as it would be meeting the interviewer in person.