Earlier this year the global pandemic caused the world to switch to an online and virtual world almost overnight. While the professional world had already been switching to digital platforms because of COVID the complete switch happened almost instantaneously. Months later, some places have gone back to in-person but many are still using the online world to conduct interviews, calls, meetings, and more.
Conducting all or most of your professional life in the virtual world can cause anxiety, stress, and uncertainty so here are a few tips to help you succeed in an ever-increasing digital world.
1. Prepare In Advance
One of the biggest tips that I can offer is to prepare! Set up your space in advance, have your notes prepared, charge your devices, do a technology check, and sign in to whatever video platform (Zoom, Google Meet, etc.) you will be using. If you have an interview type out your notes on your computer and have them open in a separate tab or write them down on a notebook and have them next to you before the interview begins. If you have a virtual meeting do the same. One of the most likely problems that can occur during a virtual meeting is a technological problem. While you can’t prepare for all tech problems, you can take a few preventive measures on your end. Make sure all devices are charged or plugged in and ready to go before your virtual meeting. Also, sign in to the video platform ahead of time and figure out to work it. Additionally, sign in to the platform a few minutes before your meeting to account for any last-minute technical glitches.
2. Do Mock Interviews with Friends/Family over Video Calls
If you have an upcoming video interview and you’re nervous about it being digital ask a friend or family member to help practice for it. Meet with them digitally and do a mock interview. Treat it like you would the real interview and give it your best shot! Afterwards, ask for feedback on how to improve your digital interview skills!
3. Try To Find A Quiet Place
This is one aspect that can be tough. A lot of people live with roommates, family members, or have noises in their neighborhoods that are outside of their control. But try your best to find a somewhat quiet place. If it helps wear headphones to block out some of the outside noise. But remember that no matter how hard you try, you still might come up with the occasional distraction. Life in the digital world is slightly unpredictable and distractions can occur. If it’s on your end apologize politely and if it’s on the other person’s end be understanding and don’t be rude. You can try your best and still have distractions so be understanding and supportive when it happens.
4. Dress Professionally
If you normally dressed professionally for your job it might be beneficial for you to continue to dress professionally. This might help so that you can continue to be in “work mode” even in a digital setting. Additionally, if you have a digital interview you should still “dress to impress.” Treat your digital interview as you would an in-person interview and dress professionally. It will show your potential employer that you take the interview seriously even though it is digital.
5. Pretend You Are In A Professional Setting
Be respectful during your virtual meetings. Behave the same way you would if the meeting was being held in-person and in an actual workplace. Just because you’re at home doesn’t meet you should leave your professional behaviors behind. Be polite, pay attention, and try your best to limit distractions. Don’t be watching TV during a meeting or doing another activity that will take your attention away. Be mature, respectful, and professional in your virtual meeting.
6. Be Understanding of Problems
In the digital world, problems can occur and oftentimes they are out of our control. So it’s best to be understanding when one of these problems does occur. If it’s a technological problem be helpful and see if you can help the other person solve the problem. If it’s a distraction be understanding as well. Let the person know that it isn’t a big deal and continue. Don’t degrade, mock, or be rude. Treat others how you would want to be treated if you were the one having the issue.
As the world continues to shift to digital problems will surely arise. So it’s helpful to be flexible, adaptable, and willing to change. These were just a few tips that I hope you found helpful as we all shift to a more digital world. If you have any additional professional tips for the digital world feel free to comment below!
- Lindsey
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