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Log into your Handshake account to schedule an appointment with a career development specialist. For information about Handshake or questions regarding career fairs and events, email careerservices@mail.wvu.edu. For Employers – please visit careerservices.wvu.edu/employers.

Best Practices for a Virtual Interview

  • Test your technology
    • Make sure your internet connection is good
    • Confirm your camera and microphone are working properly
    • This will help you to look technical savvy
  • Have a neutral background and good lighting
    • Tidy up your surroundings
    • Have a plain wall behind you and sit in an area with good lighting
    • Consider facing a window or having a lamp beside you
  • Sit down prepared
    • You don’t want to have to leave your computer screen to go grab something
    • Be focused and don’t be clicking around on your computer
    • Have a list of questions you would like to ask the employer ready
  • Practice but do not memorize
    • You do not want to sound robotic so do not memorize your elevator pitch, etc. 
  • Monitor your body language
    • You can’t shake the employer’s hand so it is crucial to monitor your body language during the interview
    • Be enthusiastic, keep the camera at eye level, sit up straight, and smile
  • Dress professionally
    • Dress like you would for an in-person interview (button-up shirt, blazer, dress, skirt, blouse, etc.)
  • Make a connection with the recruiter
    • Recruiters enjoy having a break from routine questions and connecting on a personal level
    • Try to find a common interest with the recruiter because it helps you to stand out and be remembered
  • Be yourself
    • It is noticeable to recruiters when you are being your authentic self
    • This helps to show if you would fit in with the company’s culture
  • Be on time
    • This shows the recruiter you are punctual, dependable, and respectful of their time
  • Follow up immediately
    • You should send a thank you email within 24 hours of the interview to everyone you met
    • This shows you value their time and gives you the opportunity to resell yourself
    • Consider mailing a handwritten thank you note if you have the interviewer’s address