If you want to shine during your virtual interview, you need to have the right technology at your disposal. Additionally, it’s wise to familiarize yourself with the applications and equipment, ensuring you can use them competently and avoid technical issues that could negatively reflect on you.  

Luckily, most of the technologies used for virtual interviews are commonplace. As a result, it’s easy to prepare appropriately, increasing the odds that your virtual interview will go off without a hitch. If you wonder which pieces of tech you should learn about and explore before your next meeting with a hiring manager, here’s what you need to know.  

Video Conferencing Platforms  

Most companies rely on specific kinds of video conferencing platforms for virtual interviews. Many of them are browser-accessible, ensuring candidates don’t have to download software to their personal computers or smartphones to participate. Others do require an application to be downloaded.  

For virtual interviews in a post-COVID-19 world, Zoom has become one of the most popular platforms. It’s a cloud-based video conferencing solution and allows hiring managers to invite anyone as a participant. There is a companion app, though Zoom is also fully accessible through a browser.  

Skype is another widely used option and is an application most people have on their home computers. However, for those that don’t, Skype is also accessible online through a browser.  

Unlike Zoom, Skype does require an account, so interview participants may need to create on in advance. Additionally, sharing your user name with the hiring manager is a must, allowing them to call you when your interview time arrives.  

Webex is a virtual meeting platform that some hiring managers use for interviews. It is a downloadable application, as well as accessible through a browser. You don’t have to have an account to join the meeting.  

Microsoft Teams is one of the newer options some companies have embraced. The browser version is accessible by anyone and supports video calling.  

Computer Peripherals and Equipment  

A video conferencing platform alone isn’t enough for a virtual interview. You’ll also need some basic computer peripherals or equipment to fully participate.  

A webcam is the first must. Whether it’s built into your laptop or computer screen or is a separate peripheral doesn’t matter as long as you can access it through the platform to launch your video feed.  

For audio, you have a few options. Some people prefer headsets or earbuds that incorporate speakers and microphones into a single device. Others use standalone microphones and speakers.  

Additionally, many web conferencing platforms have call-in phone numbers for audio. If that’s the case, you may be able to use any phone (smartphone, cell phone, or landline) to handle the audio portion of the call.  

Usually, it’s best to test your technology in advance. In most cases, you can access the platform and perform a test call, allowing you to check the quality of your audio (both in and out) and video. By doing the tests, you can identify technical issues and resolve them well before your interview time, ensuring you are ready for the hiring manager.  

Are You Ready for Your Next Virtual Interview? 

If you’d like to gain more interview opportunities with top pharmaceutical or IT companies, Alpha Consulting can help. Contact us today or browse our online job portal.