I have an upcoming interview over Zoom for a potential university admission. How should I prepare for it? Are there any specific tips for doing well in a virtual setting compared to an in-person one? Any advice would be awesome.
Firstly, prepare for a Zoom interview in the same way you would for an in-person one. Research the program and university you're applying to, and be ready to talk about why you're a good fit and how you could contribute to their community. Think about common interview questions and how you might answer them.
In terms of more specific virtual interview advice:
1. Check Your Tech: Make sure your internet connection is stable, your device is fully charged, and you have the Zoom app correctly installed and working. Don’t forget to do a test call to a friend or family member beforehand to ensure everything works smoothly and your audio is clear!
2. Be Mindful of Lighting and Background: Choose a quiet and well-lit location with a neat, uncluttered backdrop. This way, the interviewer can see and hear you clearly without any distractions in the background.
3. Position your Camera Properly: The camera should be at eye level so you're not looking down or up, and you should be centered in the screen. This will give the impression of making "eye contact" with the interviewer.
4. Dress Professionally: Just because it's a virtual interview, don't assume casual attire is acceptable. Dress as professionally as you would for an in-person interview.
5. Practice your Non-verbal Communication: It's easy to forget about body language when on a video call, but remember to nod and smile when appropriate to convey your enthusiasm and interest.
6. Have Notes Handy: One advantage of an online interview is you can have notes in front of you (just out of shot) with key points you want to remember, your questions for the interviewer, etc.
7. Avoid Interruptions: Let family members or roommates know when your interview is, so you won't be disturbed.
Finally, at the end of the interview be sure to thank the interviewer for their time and show your enthusiasm for the role. Following these steps will demonstrate your commitment and preparedness, which can impress admissions officers.
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