First time virtual interview

Question

Hi everyone . I’m interviewing for the first time virtually and I wrote down some answers to some common behavioral questions, is it unprofessional to kind of read off those notes during the interview? I’m so nervous

Dana Melvin, SHRM-CP · Answer

I think for any interview, either virtual or in person, that it is always appropriate to have notes available to refer to during your interview.  I would recommend using your notes as conversation starters or reminders for yourself, though, and try not to read them verbatim. I always will write down questions to ask ahead of time, as well. As someone who has conducted several interviews, it shows that the candidate cared enough to prepare ahead of time and is organized.

Jen · Answer

In addition to the notes you take, just take a quick peek behind you. Virtual interviewing allows for an unprecedented look into someone's home or personal space. Try to position the camera so there aren't too many distractions behind you. And I think it might be a good idea to  tell the interviewer you are taking a few notes,  so they don't make the assumption you are looking at your phone. Virtual interviewing is a whole new level. Good luck!

Claudia · Answer

If they're going to be picky about you having notes, or you are worried about how it makes you look, give the interviewer a heads-up.  The last few who used notes during our interviews specifically mentioned it before we began.  Something along the lines of: 'hey, I have a few notes with me, if that's alright.  I don't plan to read off them, but I find they help me keep my focus.'  And of course, as mentioned, keep the majority of your focus on the interviewers whenever possible, but it seems extreme that anyone would regard checking your notes as unprofessional.

I will note that certain job interviews will not allow you to use or take notes (including a few in local govt), so it may be worthwhile to ask before each interview, just to be sure.

Sharon Harriger · Answer

Actually, I think you should always come prepared for an interview whether it be virtual or in-person.  Having notes is fine to refer to but keep your focus on the interviewer. You want to come across as natural as possible to make a good impression. I am a bit old school in that I always had a binder with notes including a list of questions going into an in-person interview. That being said, for a virtual interview I would still come prepared and show my authentic self. Just be you.

Anonymous · Answer

I’ve been a team member interviewing candidates but not a hiring manager. However, I’ve had hiring managers express concern about candidates who looked like they were reading notes during a virtual interview because they felt it might indicate the candidate was looking up answers to even the non-behavioral questions and just telling us what they found on the internet as opposed to their own experience.

Amy Fortney, PMP · Answer

Good for you for doing the STAR response preparation! Have notes, but DO NOT read them. You need to have your answers practiced so that they sound authentic and natural. Write them down on cards and study them like flash cards until someone else can ask you the question and you can answer it effortlessly and naturally. You can do this! Good luck!

First time virtual interview

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