The Virtual Edge: Essential Prep for an Online Interview
It's not just about what you say; your professionalism and presentation are also critical to your interview success.
A successful online interview, particularly for international teaching roles, requires preparation, covering everything from technical checks to refining your personal brand. It’s not just about what you say, but how you present yourself in the virtual space.
Pre-Interview Logistics: The Tech Check
Never underestimate the power of a smooth technical experience. A technical failure can derail your entire interview.
The Setup Checklist
Internet: Test your internet speed and stability well in advance. Consider having a reliable backup, like a mobile hotspot, ready to go.
Audio/Video: Use headphones or a professional headset to ensure clear audio and minimize echo. Test your camera and microphone multiple times and well in advance.
Power: Fully charge your laptop or tablet, and keep it plugged in. The interview won’t wait if your battery dies and you do not want to be moving mid interview!
Platform: Download, install, and familiarize yourself with the interview platform (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.). Check for any necessary updates.
Time Zones: Triple-check the time difference. Use a time zone converter and set an alarm to ensure you log in early.
The Physical Space
Your background and lighting communicate professionalism.
Lighting: Ensure the light source (a window or lamp) is in front of your face, not behind you. Backlighting creates a shadowy, hard-to-see figure.
Background: Use a neutral, uncluttered background. If using a virtual background, test it carefully to ensure it doesn’t glitch or cut off your head when you move. Remove distracting clutter or personal items.
Eye Contact: Position your camera at eye level. Use a pile of books or a stand to get your computer at the right height. Look directly into the camera lens when speaking to simulate direct eye contact with the interviewer.
Quiet Zone: Inform anyone you live with that you cannot be disturbed. Turn off all notifications on your phone and computer.
Interview Preparation: Research and Practice
Technical readiness is only half the battle; knowing the school and practicing your responses will give you confidence.
Research the School
Go beyond the school’s homepage. Research should be specific and targeted to show genuine interest.
Mission & Vision: Understand the school’s core values and philosophy.
Leadership/Faculty: Look up the interviewer(s) and the Head of School on LinkedIn or the school website.
Curriculum: Be prepared to discuss your experience with their specific curriculum (e.g., IB, AP, Cambridge) and ask intelligent questions about curriculum development.
Location/Culture: Research the local culture, housing, and social scene. This demonstrates that you are serious about the move and the lifestyle.
Refine Your Presentation
Professional Attire: Dress professionally, just as you would for an in-person interview.
Body Language: Smile! Use natural hand gestures (but not too many as they can be distracting), sit up straight, and nod occasionally to show engagement. Avoid looking down or away from the camera.
Questions: Prepare 2-3 thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. These should go beyond salary and housing; focus on student programs, professional growth, and school culture.
During the Interview: Communication and Follow-Up
Managing the flow and ensuring a strong final impression are crucial to closing the deal.
Communication Flow
Pace: Speak clearly, slowly, and deliberately. Virtual calls often introduce slight delays, so avoid talking over the interviewer.
Notes: Have your prepared questions and key notes visible near your camera, but do not read directly from a script. Use notes as a prompt. Honestly if you have prepared well you probably will not even need them.
Storytelling: Structure your answers using a model like STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to provide concise, concrete examples of your professional impact.
Closing and Follow-Up
Express Enthusiasm: Reiterate your strong interest in the position and the school community.
Next Steps: Clearly ask the interviewer about the next steps and the timeline for a decision.
Thank You: Send a prompt, personalized thank you email (within 24 hours) to everyone who interviewed you. Reference a specific point from your conversation to make the email memorable.
If you’re considering a move and want help with recruitment, CV advice, or interview preparation, feel free to get in touch.