Virtual Interview Tips for Students and Recent Grads

Virtual Interview Tips for Students and Recent Grads

By Sandra Meola, Director, Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed

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Job interviews are one of the many elements of work lives that have changed amidst our COVID-19 reality. Virtual job interviews have become commonplace as recruiting organizations prioritize health and safety and forego the days of observing eye contact and handshaking. While the economy and job market may be a bit volatile nowadays, the good news is that several of Coalition for the Delaware River Watershed member organizations are hiring! Check out our website here for the latest environmental employment opportunities.

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Here are some tips to ace your virtual interview:

  • Ensure your technology works and you have appropriate lighting. Sit near a window for natural light or in front of a background where you remain the focal point.

  • Calm your nerves. 10 minutes before the interview, focus on relaxing, especially if you’re feeling anxious. A relaxed mind will allow you to focus and clearly answer questions. Take a deep breath, filling up your lungs, and breath out slowly. Try counting to six on both your inhale and exhale.

  • Dress for success. This is where you have some flexibility. Dressing head to toe in professional attire may put you in the right psychological mindset. However, you may feel a bit more relaxed wearing your favorite slippers and cozy pants with a suit jacket!

  • “Tell me about yourself?” This will 99.9% be the very first question you are asked during an interview and it’s an easy win! Be sure to practice your elevator pitch that includes your internship or educational experience and an example of an accomplishment, and also why you’re interested in the position and why you’d be a great fit. 

  • Do your research. Benjamin Franklin once said, ‘If you fail to prepare, then you prepare to fail.” Be sure to read up on the organization, their programming, partners, and recent news articles that they’re mentioned in.

  • Don’t be humble. Be confident and clearly communicate why you’re the best fit for the job. You got this!

  • Tell stories. Interviewers read your resume, but with every one of your answers, be sure to tell a story related to your strengths and the position’s scope. Be prepared to discuss challenges you handled.

  • Show your personality. Tell the interviewer why you want to work in the conversation space and why protecting the environment and clean water is important to you.

  • Be an active listener. Be careful not to talk over interviewers, which is sometimes difficult over Zoom. Listen to the question to understand it and pause to collect your thoughts before answering.

  • Ask questions. Some of my personal favorites: 

    1. Is there anything about my background or skill set that gives you hesitancy whether I’m a good fit for this role? Based on the interviewers answer to your question, you may be afforded an opportunity to clarify and expand. 

    2. How is the organization involved/committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts?

    3. What does success look like for the candidate offered this position?

  • Send a thank you note. Don’t let 24 hours slip by before sending a thank you note! Reiterate your specific strengths and interest in the position and your gratitude for the opportunity to interview.

We hope that as you pursue your career in the environmental sector, your talents will contribute to the conservation of the land and water resources in the Delaware River Basin. Good luck on the job search!