14 Things Successful Candidates Do the Night Before a Virtual Job Interview

So far, this year. I have been an interviewer in 8 virtual interviews.

Virtual interviews have become the norm, so how you prepare the night before can significantly impact your performance. Unlike traditional interviews, virtual interviews present unique challenges that require careful attention to detail. While you may not need to worry about navigating traffic or finding a parking spot, preparing for a virtual interview involves a different set of logistics and strategies. Here’s a comprehensive guide to ensure that you wake up ready and confident for your virtual interview.

Preparing for a Virtual Interview – Managing the Logistics:

1. Set Multiple Alarms:
   • Why It’s Important: Ensuring that you wake up on time is critical for starting your day on the right foot. The stress of running late can set a negative tone before you even log on.
   • Action Step: Set at least two alarms. The first should be your primary wake-up call, and the second, a backup, can ensure you don’t oversleep or rush. This simple precaution can save you from unnecessary stress.
2. Prepare Your Virtual Space:
   • Why It’s Important: Your interview space reflects your professionalism. A cluttered or distracting background can detract from your performance.
   • Action Step: The night before, take the time to tidy up your space. Ensure that your background is clean and neutral—nothing too personal or distracting. A well-organized space helps convey that you’re organized and detail-oriented.
3. Test Your Technology:
   • Why It’s Important: Technical difficulties can derail even the most prepared candidates. Ensuring your technology works smoothly is essential for a seamless interview experience.
   • Action Step: Check your internet connection, microphone, camera, and any software you’ll be using for the interview. This is not just about functionality; make sure your camera is at eye level, your audio is clear, and your lighting flatters you. Doing this the night before leaves room for troubleshooting.
4. Minimize Digital Distractions:
   • Why It’s Important: Interruptions can break your focus and disrupt the flow of your interview.
   • Action Step: Close unnecessary tabs and applications on your computer. Mute notifications on your phone and computer to prevent distracting pop-ups or sounds during the interview. Consider using a ‘Do Not Disturb’ mode to keep your focus uninterrupted.
5. Work Out to Clear Your Mind:
   • Why It’s Important: Exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and improve cognitive function. It helps you feel more relaxed and focused.
   • Action Step: Engage in a physical activity that you enjoy, whether it’s a full workout, a brisk walk, or yoga. This will help you sleep better and clear your mind of any lingering anxieties about the interview.
6. Eat a Balanced Meal:
   • Why It’s Important: Nutrition fuels your brain. Eating well ensures you have the energy and mental clarity to perform at your best.
   • Action Step: Plan a healthy dinner with plenty of protein, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that might disrupt your sleep. Prepare a light, nutritious breakfast the night before, such as a smoothie or yogurt with granola, to save time in the morning.
7. Practice with Your Interview Platform:
   • Why It’s Important: Familiarity with the platform prevents last-minute panic. Knowing how to navigate the software confidently can reduce anxiety.
   • Action Step: If you’re unfamiliar with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or another platform, do a test run. Practice joining a meeting, muting/unmuting your microphone, and sharing your screen. This will make you feel more in control during the interview.
8. Plan for Contingencies:
   • Why It’s Important: Being prepared for unexpected issues shows your adaptability, a trait valued by employers.
   • Action Step: Have a backup plan for technical difficulties. This could include having another device ready to switch to, ensuring your phone is fully charged if you need to call in, or knowing how to reach the interviewer if you encounter problems. Also, keep the interview link or contact information handy.
9. Set Your Stage:
   • Why It’s Important: Good lighting and a well-chosen background enhance your presence on camera, making you appear more professional and engaged.
   • Action Step: Arrange your interview space to ensure it’s well-lit, with the light source in front of you, not behind. A ring light or even a well-positioned desk lamp can make a big difference. Check how you appear on camera the night before to make any necessary adjustments.

Preparing for a Virtual Interview – Enhancing Your Performance:

1. Develop Some Virtual-Friendly Small Talk:
   • Why It’s Important: Virtual interviews can feel impersonal. Small talk helps break the ice and builds rapport with the interviewer.
   • Action Step: Prepare a few light conversation starters. This could be something about the company’s recent achievements, industry news, or even something interesting about working remotely. These tidbits can help ease into the interview and make you more memorable.
2. Update Your Research:
   • Why It’s Important: Demonstrating that you’re up-to-date on the company’s latest developments shows you’re engaged and serious about the opportunity.
   • Action Step: Revisit the company’s website, social media pages, and recent news articles. If the company has been in the news or has posted a new blog, mention it during the interview to show you’re informed and proactive.
3. Create a Digital Agenda:
   • Why It’s Important: Having a structured plan helps you stay focused and ensures you cover all the points you want to discuss.
   • Action Step: Prepare a notepad or a digital document with key points you want to cover. This includes questions for the interviewer, your strengths, and experiences relevant to the job. Keep this agenda visible but out of the camera’s view for easy reference during the interview.
4. Rehearse Your Responses:
   • Why It’s Important: Practicing your responses helps you appear confident and well-prepared.
   • Action Step: Spend some time the night before rehearsing answers to common interview questions, especially those that are behavioral or situational. Practice speaking clearly and at a moderate pace, looking into the camera as if making eye contact.
5. Have Digital and Physical Copies of Your Resume:
   • Why It’s Important: Being prepared with your resume in both formats ensures you’re ready to share it when needed.
   • Action Step: Even if you’ve emailed your resume before, have a digital copy ready to send during the interview if requested. Additionally, print out a physical copy to have in front of you as a reference during the conversation. This can help you stay grounded and focused on your accomplishments.

Final Thoughts: Prepare to Succeed

The night before a virtual interview is your opportunity to set the stage for success. By taking the time to organize your space, ensure your technology is functioning, and rehearse your responses, you can approach the interview with confidence and calm. The more prepared you are, the more natural and self-assured you’ll appear, making a strong impression on your potential employer.

Ready to ace your virtual job interview?

Don’t leave anything to chance. Start your preparation the night before by following these 14 proven strategies. By setting up your environment, checking your technology, and rehearsing your key points, you’ll walk into your virtual interview with confidence and poise.

The job you want is just a few clicks away—make sure you’re prepared to seize the opportunity!