Virtual and Phone Interviews
Your interview isn’t in person. Here’s how to prepare.
Most first round interviews now happen by phone or video. Some employers may even ask you to complete a one-way recorded interview through a platform like HireVue. While the format may be different, the goal is the same: show the employer why you’re a great fit for the role. Use the checklists below to prepare for phone, video, and recorded interviews so you can feel confident and ready when it’s time to log in or answer the call.
Are you a graduate student?
This content is tailored for undergraduates.
Graduate students, see Academic Job Market Preparation
Before any remote interview
Whether you’re interviewing by phone, video, or a recorded platform like HireVue, the same preparation applies. Before focusing on the technology, make sure you’ve completed the basics of interview preparation.
- Research the company, role, and team.
- Prepare your stories and examples.
- Review common interview questions.
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer.
Need help with the basics? Visit how to prepare for an interview.
Phone interviews
Phone interviews are often the first step in the hiring process. Employers use them to assess your communication skills, learn more about your interest in the role, and determine whether you’ll move forward in the process. Treat a phone interview as seriously as any other interview. Your voice is the only impression the interviewer has.
- Choose a quiet location with a reliable phone signal.
- Charge your phone fully or keep it plugged in during the interview.
- Answer the phone professionally and identify yourself clearly.
- Sit at a desk or table rather than walking around or lying down.
- Smile while you speak and focus on speaking slowly and clearly.
- Avoid using speakerphone whenever possible.
- Don’t eat, drink, chew gum, text, or take other calls during the interview.
Live video interviews (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet)
Live video interviews have become the standard for many first- and second-round interviews. While the conversation is similar to an in-person interview, the format adds a few extra details to manage, including your technology, lighting, camera placement, and interview environment.
- Download and test the platform before interview day.
- Use a professional display name and profile photo.
- Test your webcam, microphone, and speakers.
- Confirm your internet connection is reliable.
- Choose a clean, distraction-free background.
- Check your lighting so your face is easy to see.
- Position your camera at eye level.
- Dress as professionally as you would for an in-person interview.
- Look at the camera while answering questions rather than watching yourself on the screen.
- Close unnecessary tabs, applications, and notifications before the interview.
Pro tip: Open the meeting a few minutes early and use the self-view feature to check your framing, lighting, and background. Once the interview begins, focus on the conversation rather than watching yourself on screen.
Need a professional interview space? If you’re concerned about your background, noise level, internet connection, or privacy, contact the Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration to reserve an interview room before your interview.
One-way recorded interviews (HireVue and similar)
Some employers use platforms like HireVue that allow candidates to record responses to interview questions rather than speaking with a live interviewer. You’ll typically receive a question, have a short amount of time to prepare, and then record your response within a set time limit. While the format may feel different, employers are still evaluating your communication skills, professionalism, and fit for the role.
- Review the instructions and time limits before you begin.
- Practice answering questions within a 2 to 3 minute timeframe.
- Check whether the platform allows retakes before recording.
- Use the same setup you would for a live video interview, including professional attire, lighting, and background.
- Look directly at the camera while responding.
- Complete the interview well before the deadline in case technical issues arise.
After any remote interview
No matter the format, your interview isn’t over when the call or recording ends.
- Ask about next steps and the anticipated hiring timeline.
- Make sure you have the interviewer’s name, title, and contact information.
- Send a thank-you email within 24 hours that references something specific from your conversation and reiterates your interest in the opportunity.
- Remember that every interaction with the organization reflects on you, including emails, phone calls, and scheduling conversations.
Ready for your interview?
Reading about interviews is helpful, but practice is what builds confidence. Before your phone, video, or recorded interview, take time to practice answering questions and talking about your experiences. A mock interview can help you refine your responses, improve your delivery, and feel more prepared when it’s time for the real thing.
Ready to practice before the real thing?
A career coach can run a mock interview with you, review your answers, and help you sharpen your delivery before any phone, video, or recorded round. Most students start with a single in-person or virtual appointment.
Career Coaching & Education
Center for Career Development & Academic Exploration
865-974-5435