5 Ways to Prepare for a Zoom Job Interview

Do you have a Zoom job interview scheduled in the near future? If you've never participated in a job interview over video chat, you may be wondering how to get ready. First, it's a smart idea to complete the Core Values Index psychometric assessment at eRep.com to make sure the job is right for you, then follow these tips to prepare for every aspect of your interview.

Dress the Part

You will want to make sure you look great on camera, so investing in a stylish interview outfit is a must. This step doesn't have to break the bank, though. By shopping online for the right clothes, you can score discounts and deals on professional clothing from top retailers. For instance, applying Bloomingdale's promo codes can help you update your wardrobe at reduced cost.

When it comes to makeup, Real Simple recommends using a color correcting cream and undereye concealer to look fresh and awake during your interview. You may also want to see if your favorite beauty retailers are running online sales on basic makeup products. Alternatively, you could browse the shelves at your local drugstore rather than at higher-end chains like Macy's.

Invest in a Webcam

Your computer may already have a built-in webcam but it may not produce high-quality images. If this is the case, you may want to search for an external webcam. Yes, this tool can be expensive if you buy it at full price, which is why shopping online and looking for sales and other discounts are crucial. You also want to make sure that you're getting a high-quality model. According to Lifewire, choose a webcam with high resolution, a high frame rate and a glass lens.

Organize Your Space

Before your interview date arrives, take some time to tidy up your space. Your interviewer will be able to see what's behind you, so you don't want the room to be cluttered and messy. Toss any paperwork you no longer need and put away necessary documents. To save money on organizational tools, you can put pencils, pens, paperclips, and other small items in decorative mugs from your kitchen.

You should also think about what is on the wall behind you. Make sure that any artwork or photos visible to your webcam are appropriate for an interviewer to see.

[Editor's bonus tip: Bookshelves make great backgrounds, but curate the titles visible on camera. Select books that are in your field and make sure their spines or covers can be seen on camera.]

Learn Your Way Around Zoom

Doing a dry run with your technology before your interview is a smart idea. This is also a good opportunity to learn your way around Zoom and experiment with its free features that can make video chatting more enjoyable, even if you won't use all of them during your interview. For instance, you can change up your virtual background, turn on the beauty filter to look more polished, and share your screen with other participants to hear their feedback.

Rehearse Ahead of Time

Although you won't know exactly which interview questions you're going to be asked, you can still rehearse your potential answers ahead of time. There are several free or low-priced interview preparation apps available for your phone. With these apps, you'll be able to work through likely questions and plan out your responses in advance. This will help you feel much confident when your interview date rolls around.

→ See: Choose To Be Someone You're Not

While you might be nervous about your Zoom interview, conducting an interview remotely does have some perks. You'll be able to chat with the hiring manager from the comfort of your home, and you can control your environment. With these tips, you'll be able to make a great first impression while sticking to your budget.

Wondering which job or career track is the best fit for your personality? Take the Core Values Index assessment with eRep to learn more about your personality and the kind of activities and occupations are likely to bring you the greatest happiness.