18/11/2024
Take a critical look at the area you'll use for your interview.
Clutter - move it or cover it up neatly. Check for embarrassing items, as no one needs to see your haemorrhoid cream waiting patiently on the shelf🥹.
Walls - check those pictures and posters - are they appropriate for a business meeting?
Mirrors - You may have tidied behind you, but make sure any mirrors or reflective surfaces in view of the camera don't reveal anything you don't want to be seen.
Do sit behind a desk or table, as this creates a more professional image. Psychologically, it adds a comforting 'shield' whilst also providing a surface for papers you may wish to refer to during your conversation.
If you don't have a table/desk and you can't source one from friends/family, sit on a chair (dining chair height) and have a small coffee table next to you for papers and a glass of water. It's best not to sit on a low chair or in an armchair or sofa as these will make you look awkward and don't give off a professional vibe.
If circumstances dictate that you can't be at home for your interview, you could (at a push) use your car. You'll need to find a quiet spot where you won't get anyone knocking on your window and one well away from other distractions like a school at kicking-out time or a street at bin collection time. Start the interview by acknowledging your unusual location and make light of it by calling it your mobile office. Think carefully about this option, though, especially if you're applying for a role with a home-working element... prospective employers will wonder why you didn't interview from your home workspace.
Don't use a coffee shop as your chosen spot for your interview - even at a quiet time. Having others around you will make you self-conscious, and there is always a chance of interruptions from staff or other customers.
Try to avoid using fake/virtual backgrounds unless you've found a reliable one that doesn't move, flicker, go fuzzy and make your head look like it keeps changing shape 🫣.
Why not get some practice in now? Practice makes perfect 💪.