Though it may feel that the pandemic is slipping away with raised mask mandates on campus, there is one aspect of the pandemic that will likely remain with us forever, Zoom. As a senior planning to graduate in just a month, I’ve fallen victim to the Zoom interview process. With practice, each one has become easier, and I’ve established a routine to get myself in the right headspace and physical space to set myself up for success. Allow yourself time to prepare
relax beforehand.
Make your favorite breakfast (or lunch, depending on the time of day it is), scroll through Tik Tok (I know you want to), and anything else that’s a key role in your morning routine. Allow your time to relax and feel normal! That hour of time is also when I like to do my hair and makeup, pick out an outfit, and get my stuffed animals out of the background of my frame. If you feel especially anxious before an interview, practice meditation or mindful breathing prior.
Set up your space.
It may seem like a given, but set up your laptop on a desk and sit in a chair. This shows the interviewer that you are taking the interview seriously and want to treat it as if you’re right there in person. Make sure that your background looks professional, your bed is made, and shove any clothes on your floor into your closet. You want to feel good about your space! If your room looks like an episode of Hoarding Buried Alive (like mine sometimes does) or has some rather questionable decor, don’t be afraid to rearrange your furniture so that a plain wall is behind you.
Keep essentials on hand.
For every Zoom interview I’ve had, I keep my laptop plugged in the entire time just for peace of mind, and that if the interview goes longer than expected, I don’t have to worry about letting them know I need to plug my computer in. Also, I like to keep a glass of water in case I need it and a paper of notes about the company and questions I may have. Use the power of Zoom to your advantage, and keep those notes on hand to calm your nerves!
Prepare like it’s any other interview.
For an interview, it’s wise to research the company, look up your interviewers on LinkedIn, and familiarize yourself with the job description. As I mentioned above, those are things you can write on a piece of paper and keep with you during the interview. Additionally, practice commonly asked interview questions in the mirror. It may sound silly, but having the response to “Tell me about yourself” and “What are your biggest strengths and weaknesses” ready to go can go a long way. Also, have several few sentence speeches prepared about each item on your resume to be prepared to talk about it when asked.
In your next interview, take time to relax and prepare, and you will find a surge in confidence. If you face rejection (I have faced it plenty), remind yourself that you tried your best and another path is meant for you. You will find the right job and company for you, even if it takes time. Good luck with your next Zoom interview!