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Virtual Interview Questions and Answers: What You Need to Know

  • Writer: Hiring Specialist
    Hiring Specialist
  • Apr 29
  • 4 min read

Updated: 2 days ago

So, hey there! Have you ever found yourself sitting at a computer, dressed up on top but still in your comfy pajama bottoms, waiting for a virtual interview? (You know you can’t be the only one!) Interviewing has shifted so much in recent years, and knowing the right questions to ask can really help you find an amazing candidate or, you know, send potential hires to the end of the line. Let’s break down some common virtual interview questions and the key answers, so you can sift through candidates like a pro.


What Are Virtual Interviews?

First, let’s chat about what virtual interviews actually are. They’re basically interviews that happen over a video call using tools like Zoom, Skype, or even Google Meet. Easy, right? Companies use these kinds of interviews more to save time or keep their budgets in check. Both sides #minimize travel stress—and isn’t it nice to not deal with traffic? (Or the “what-the-heck-am-I-going-to-wear” dilemma?)


The Benefits of Virtual Interviews

So, why can they be great?


  • Flexibility: Not everyone lives in the same town. So, interviewing practically from your couch could save lots of worry!

  • Wider Talent Pool: Hey, you can think beyond borders now. Talent isn’t stuck in just your local area anymore.

  • Cost-Efficiency: Who doesn’t like saving a bit of cash? No travel expenses involved for anyone involved!


Ah, it sure feels nice to highlight some of those wins right off the bat! Let's move on to something so crucial: the typically recurring questions you might face during a call.


Common Virtual Interview Questions

Surprising or not, interviews do tend to share some classic vibes filled with familiar questions.


1. "Tell Me About Yourself."

Pretty common, right? You might cringe anytime it comes up because, seriously, where do you even start? But think about it as your shot to shine!


What to include:


  • Your background, but keep it relevant to the job.

  • A little about recent experiences that make you a great fit.

  • Some personal flair! (Maybe mention a hobby; did you bridge-jump last summer? Yeah, that’ll stick.)


Sample Answer:


"I'm originally from Ohio. I graduated in marketing a few years back and I’ve worked with different digital companies since then. In my last job, I improved their content strategy which doubled engagement!”


That normalcy makes it solid! Who wouldn’t want a piece of advice that simple?


2. "What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?"

Okay, if you can bring those strengths up with confidence, it's golden! But weaknesses? Uh-oh (no one really likes to talk about them, am I right?) Here’s some food for thought:


  • Strengths: Focus on qualities or skills crucial for the role.

  • Weaknesses: Choose something honest, show how you’re working on improving it.


Sample Answer: "My strength is problem-solving. At work, I thrive on figuring out challenges creatively. A weakness would be that I take on too much at times, but I'm getting better at delegating tasks."


Seems simple enough! But now the real game is coming up with virtual interview questions for the candidates.


Questions to Ask Candidates

Here’s the fun part—all those questions for your interviewees! Asking the right ones helps you nullify the fluff and get so much more contrasting result-led data. Because who wants to grind through a pile of excuses?


1. "Why Did You Apply for This Position?"

This paints a nice picture of their understanding and interest in what you have.


Tip: Look for various things - goals, motivations, and expectations viewers have. If they dig deep and show they're engaged, that enthusiasm has potential for success!


2. "How Do You Others Give Feedback?"

How will they fit into your team’s dynamics? Can they handle challenges like big adults? Asking how they take criticism is super crucial.


Key Takeaway: Ideally, they will openly express corrective feedback, which can bring accountability and trustworthiness.


3. "Describe a Challenge You've Overcome at Work."

With this question, you're looking for a chance to glimpse their problem-solving capability. Has the candidate walked the talked of grazing technical issues or severe deadlines? Snapshots of previous experiences excite loads when tackling unexpected bumps while in lean “shoulder-to-shoulder” dialogue with teammates or clients.


Don’t Skimp on the Small Talk!

Let's talk casual stuff for just one sec! Don't feel pressure to be all professional during the entire interview. Part of conducting a remote call can make for lighter moments too. And touching on shared interests will allow candidates to sigh—maybe even laugh a little later!


Troubleshoot Your Interviews

Bumps might come during those technical gatherings. Let's get through a few quick problems.


Issue: Connection Drops or Upsetting Adjustments

Don’t forget about them! Invest in a secure bandwidth option, and, because trust comes from assisting one another, urge the interviewee to have their browser updated. Friendly vibes!


OBSERVE Your Candidate on Video!

When deciding on every fit for backing story "testimonials," simply watch closely! Because besides the verbal response, eye contact and posture can say so much, pushing dynamic dialogues.


Wrapping It All Up

Yikes, where has the time gone? I mean, navigating virtual interview questions is no small feat—they invite a uniquely intimate situation for any folks you invite into YOUR world as seamless choices on screen can fast-track you toward those dreams.



Go rock those virtual interviews!


 
 
 

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