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With an increase of video and Skype interviews being incorporated in the hiring strategy
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to speed up the process, it's essential that you know how to nail virtual calls
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However, as these technological advances have just recently made their way into the hiring
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strategy, a lot of people don't know how to set up and prepare for a video interview
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Luckily, we've rounded up the best tips to help you ace your virtual interview
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So let's dive right in! Number 1. Test your technology beforehand Testing your internet connection, microphone
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and camera is essential. You want your interviewer to hear your brilliant answers, don't you
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Don't set yourself up for an interview faux pas and do a test call to check that everything
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is in place and working properly before your big day. Number 2
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Inform your household Whether you live with your parents, your spouse and kids or your friends, they are likely to walk in on your interview if they don't
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know any better. To avoid any disruptions, let anyone in your household know about the interview and encourage
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them to leave the premises for the duration of your call. Number 3
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Keep your surroundings tidy Keep your surroundings clean, tidy and professional. You might not think it, but distracting surroundings can have a negative effect on your interview
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So choose an area that has nothing else in the background apart from your clean wall
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Number 4. Put your pets away Make sure your furry friends are outside of
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ear and eye shot. I'm sorry, hiding your pet on your lap isn't gonna cut it
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If you have an animal that makes loud noises, see if a friend can keep them entertained
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and out of the house for the duration of your interview. Number 5
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Switch the lights on This isn't the Battle of Winterfell in Game of Thrones, so sitting in darkness isn't gonna save anyone
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During a video interview, you wanna sit somewhere that has good or natural lighting so that
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you are fully lit in front of the camera. Number 6. Keep your camera at eye level If you're not well acquainted with video calls
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it can be hard to know where to place your camera. Do you try to get your shoulder in or aim for the neck and above
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The safest option is to keep your laptop at eye level so that you have a flattering angle
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of your face. Number 7. Wear an interview-friendly outfit Although you're in the comfort of your home
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you'll still need to dress to impress when it comes to your video interview
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Wear a power suit or business attire that will give you the confidence boost that you need
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And yes, that means your shoes, too! Number 8. Maintain eye contact with your camera It can be difficult to maintain eye contact
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with your video camera. Most people tend to get distracted and either look at themselves in the box in the corner
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or stare at the interviewer while they are talking. However, when you're answering a question, speak directly to the camera in a confident manner
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Number 9. Mute distracting notifications It's easy to forget to turn off calendar
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or Slack notifications when you're using your personal computer. However, these noises can be extremely distracting and come off as unprofessional, especially
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when they make you lose focus during your interview. So stay on the safe side and mute any notifications
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Number 10. Add sticky notes around your screen The good thing about a virtual interview is
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that you can keep some notes close to you to guide you through those challenging questions
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Keep them out of sight by sticking a few post-it notes close to your webcam
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Now that you have these tips, you should feel confident and prepared for your next virtual interview
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However, if you still need more insight, visit CareerAddict.com for more advice
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And don't forget to like the video and click on the subscribe button to get more insightful tips