Yes! Residency interviews are going to be virtual this year, I am sure you all know that by now. It is a new game with new rules and chances are that you have never taken virtual residency interviews before. Here are a few tips to help you be better prepared for this process.
Technology – Let it be your friend and not your enemy
The Software
While you may be totally prepared in every other aspect, having a “technical glitch” on the interview day does not sound like something you would want to happen. So make sure you get this right.
Most programs will use the standard video conference platforms like Zoom to conduct interviews, however, once you get the interview invitation, it is always good to confirm which software is going to be used. Download this before hand and make sure it is compatible with your device.
Next, ask a friend to download the app and make sure you are able to connect and that you figure out where all the different buttons are. You do not want to be muted when you introduce yourself!
The Hardware
WiFi / Internet Connection
Please make sure you have high speed Wi-Fi connection that does not keep going off. This is the time to invest in a good internet provider. I cannot stress the importance of this enough. PLEASE INVEST IN a HIGH-SPEED INTERNET.
Laptop v/s Phone
Always always always please use a laptop unless you are in a situation when that is absolutely not possible, you can use your phone. There are a few reasons for this
- It looks more professional
- The laptop is easier to navigate, especially when you are in high pressure situations
- More stable, you do not want to be holding your smart phone or have it fall in the middle of an interview
- Generally has more updated hardware
- Fewer distractions. You do not want to keep getting whatsapp notifications in between the interview!
Webcam v/s built in camera
Depending on your device, it may be a good idea to invest in a good webcam. Especially if you have an older device, damaged camera or one that gives poor quality images.
Note: Make sure the poor video quality is not due to poor internet connection before you buy devices.
Headphones?
There is no right answer for this one. You have to look at 2 factors aesthetics v/s being heard clearly.
I would say give more preference to being heard clearly when you talk. Without the headphone/ microphone, your voice may echo. Again, make sure you test this before the interview day with a friend/ family member and ask them for feedback.
If you have really bulky headphones that cover your head, it may be a good idea to invest in earphones like airpods that are aesthetically more pleasing.
Make sure that any devices that you may be using (eg. webcam, headphones/ microphone) are compatible and work with the software being used.
Set the Scene
The room
Make sure you designate a particular room in your house for interviews. This is your “interview room”, make sure everyone in the house knows about it so that they don’t disturb you or walk into the room on interview day.
Other factors to consider when choosing your interview room are
- Connection to Wi-Fi!
- Good natural light
- Free from loud sounds
- Your comfort level
- Minimum distractions
The Background
Make sure you have a relatively neutral background. It may be better to start of by selecting a spot that has a white (or any other subtle color) background.
You can leave the background plain or you may chose to have some decor. But, make sure it is not too busy and has things that distract the interviewer or display political/ religious preferences.
It may be a good idea to have a plant, a subtle painting, etc. It is your space and you can get creative with it. Once again, make sure you do this before hand and not a day before the interview.
Lighting
Lighting is a one of those things that is easy to over look and something that can make a huge difference in your presentation.
- Try to maximize natural lighting to ensure your face is well lit and there are no shadows. This will mean having the light coming from the front and falling on your face. A light source from the side will create a shadow on the opposite side.
- Use a 3 point lighting system: Imagine a clock, if your face is at the 12 position, place lights at 10 and 2 o’clock positions.
- If you want to take it a step ahead, invest in a ring light.
So basically to sum it up, take care of your Lights, Sound, Camera………….. ACTION!
Want help with interviews? We are now offering practice virtual interview sessions by current residents who have been through the interview process and thoroughly researched on how to succeed in interviews. Find more information here.
This article has been written by Dr. Rohit Nathani who is a medical resident at NYC. Ask your questions in the comments section below.
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