Online interview tips for Australian jobs camera body language and more is one of those topics that became more relevant during the pandemic but remains important. Many employers still use online interviews, and they require different preparation than in person interviews. I’ve done online interviews, and I’ve watched friends do them. Some went well. Others had technical issues or didn’t present well. The difference was understanding how to prepare for online interviews.
Three years later, I’m finishing my Master’s at the University of Melbourne. I’ve done many online interviews, and I’ve learned what works and what doesn’t. Some approaches worked well. Others didn’t. The difference was understanding the technical and presentation aspects of online interviews.
So here’s everything I know about online interview tips for Australian jobs, based on what actually works.
Technical Setup: Getting It Right
This is the foundation, and here’s what matters.
Test your technology: camera, microphone, and internet connection. Test everything before the interview.
Choose a good location: quiet, well lit, and professional background. Avoid distractions and messy backgrounds.
Position your camera: eye level or slightly above. This creates a natural angle. Don’t position it too low or too high.
But here’s what I’ve learned: technical issues can derail interviews. Test everything beforehand, and have a backup plan. Don’t assume everything will work.
Camera and Lighting: Looking Professional
This is important, because how you look affects the impression.
Lighting matters: face a window or use good lighting. Avoid backlighting, which makes you look dark.
Camera angle: eye level or slightly above. This creates a natural, professional look.
Background: clean and professional. Avoid messy or distracting backgrounds. A plain wall or tidy room works well.
But here’s what I’ve learned: looking professional matters. Good lighting and a clean background make a big difference. Don’t underestimate this.
Body Language: What Works Online
This is different from in person, and here’s what works.
Eye contact: look at the camera, not the screen. This creates the impression of eye contact. It feels awkward, but it works.
Posture: sit up straight. Good posture shows confidence and professionalism.
Gestures: use natural gestures, but don’t overdo it. Small gestures are fine, but avoid large movements that might be distracting.
But here’s what I’ve learned: body language matters online too. Look at the camera, sit up straight, and use natural gestures. It makes a difference.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what I’ve seen go wrong, so you can avoid these mistakes:
Not testing technology. Test everything beforehand. Don’t assume it will work.
Poor lighting or background. Good lighting and a clean background matter. Don’t underestimate this.
Looking at the screen instead of camera. Look at the camera to create eye contact. It feels awkward, but it works.
But here’s what I’ve learned: these mistakes are avoidable. Test technology, set up good lighting, and look at the camera. Preparation prevents problems.
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have technical issues?
Have a backup plan. Test everything beforehand, and have a phone number to call if needed. Most employers understand technical issues happen.
Should I use a virtual background?
Usually no. Real backgrounds usually look more professional. But if your background is distracting, a simple virtual background can work.
How do I make eye contact online?
Look at the camera, not the screen. It feels awkward, but it creates the impression of eye contact. Practice this.
What should I wear?
Dress professionally, just like an in person interview. Dress from head to toe, not just what’s visible. It affects your confidence.
Should I have notes?
Yes, but use them subtly. Have notes nearby, but don’t read from them constantly. Glance at them if needed, but maintain eye contact.
How do I handle interruptions?
Minimize interruptions. Tell others not to interrupt, close doors, and silence notifications. If interrupted, apologize briefly and continue.
Final Thoughts
Online interview tips for Australian jobs focus on technical setup, camera and lighting, and body language. Test your technology, set up good lighting, and look at the camera. Prepare thoroughly, and you’ll present professionally online.
Don’t underestimate online interviews. They require different preparation than in person interviews. Test technology, set up good lighting, and practice looking at the camera. Preparation makes a difference.
I’ve made plenty of mistakes since landing in Melbourne, but each one taught me something. The biggest lesson? Test everything. Don’t assume technology will work. Test camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand. Set up good lighting, and practice looking at the camera. Preparation prevents problems.
If you’re still preparing for online interviews, test your technology, set up good lighting, and practice looking at the camera. Prepare thoroughly, and you’ll present professionally online.