How to Choose the Right Examples for Your Job Interview. Job Interview Stories (Part 2)

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 In Part 1 of this series, we focused on clarity before confidence - why being clear about your role and value matters more than sounding impressive. If you prefer to listen rather than read, this topic is also discussed in the Business English Talks podcast, where we break down real interview answers and explain why some of them work better than others. In this article, we move to the next step: choosing the right examples. Even professionals with strong experience often struggle in interviews because they talk about the wrong situations - or they choose examples that are too complex, too vague, or not clearly connected to the question. This article will help you choose examples that are: easy to explain, relevant to the role, and effective in real interview situations. Along the way, you’ll find ready-to-use Business English phrases you can apply immediately. Why examples matter more than job titles Interviewers don’t hire job titles. They hire people who can solve problems and ...
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Virtual Job Interviews: Essential Tips for 2025

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 In today's digital-first world, virtual job interviews have become the new standard. Whether you're applying for remote positions or simply navigating modern recruitment processes, your ability to perform well in a virtual interview can be a game-changer. This guide offers practical strategies, language tips, and professional insights to help you stand out.



1. Optimize Your Digital Presence


Before the interview, recruiters are likely to search for you online. Your digital footprint can help—or hurt—your chances.


What to do:


Update your LinkedIn profile with your latest experience, clear job titles, a professional photo, and a strong headline.


Create or refresh your digital portfolio if you work in design, writing, marketing, or development. Make it easy to navigate.


Google yourself to check what employers might see. If necessary, update or clean up your public profiles.



Language tip: Have a short introduction prepared for when interviewers ask about your background. Practice this in a clear, friendly tone:


> "I'm a marketing specialist with five years of experience in digital campaigns, currently focusing on content strategy and audience growth."




2. Set Up a Professional Interview Environment


Your surroundings say a lot about you in a virtual interview. Visual distractions or poor lighting can shift focus away from your skills.


What to do:


Choose a quiet, tidy space with a neutral or professional background.


Use natural lighting or a ring light so your face is clearly visible.


Test your camera and microphone in advance. Use headphones to reduce echo.



Pro tip: Sit facing a window or light source, not with it behind you. Avoid virtual backgrounds unless they’re clean and subtle.


Language tip: Be prepared to greet your interviewer warmly:


> "Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I’ve been looking forward to our conversation."




3. Use AI Tools for Smarter Preparation


AI tools are becoming part of the modern job search. Used wisely, they can help you feel more confident and prepared.


What to try:


Use platforms like Interviewing.io to simulate live interviews and get feedback.


Use Jobscan to tailor your resume and LinkedIn profile to the job description.


Ask ChatGPT (hi!) to help you rephrase or polish your answers.



Language tip: Practice answering:


> "Why do you think you're a good fit for this role?" "I believe my experience in project coordination, combined with my ability to adapt quickly in remote environments, makes me a strong candidate for this position."




4. Master Virtual Communication Skills


In virtual interviews, small communication cues matter more than ever. Your voice, expression, and timing are key.


What to do:


Look at the camera, not the screen, when speaking. This simulates eye contact.


Use body language: smile naturally, nod when listening, and use hand gestures sparingly.


Avoid long pauses or talking over the interviewer. Speak clearly and confidently.



Practice phrases to stay engaged:


> "That’s a great question—let me think about that for a moment." "Yes, I completely understand your point, and in fact..."




5. Prepare for Behavioral Questions


Behavioral questions are still a major focus in virtual interviews. Employers want to know how you solve problems, work in teams, and manage time.


Use the STAR method:


Situation – What was happening?


Task – What were you responsible for?


Action – What did you do?


Result – What happened in the end?



Example answer:


> "In my last job, we faced a deadline shift on a major campaign. I was responsible for the content schedule, so I worked with the design team to reprioritize tasks. As a result, we delivered everything on time and increased engagement by 20%."




6. Ask Smart Questions


Good interviews go both ways. Asking thoughtful questions shows you’ve researched the company and are serious about the opportunity.


What to ask:


"How would you describe the company's culture, especially in remote settings?"


"What tools or systems does your team use to collaborate online?"


"What are the biggest challenges for someone in this role during the first 90 days?"



Language tip: End with appreciation and curiosity:


> "Thank you so much for your time. I really enjoyed learning about the team. Could you share what the next steps in the process might look like?"




7. Follow Up Professionally


Your follow-up message is part of your impression.


What to do:


Send a thank-you email within 24 hours.


Mention something specific from your conversation.


Reaffirm your interest and availability.



Example email:


> Subject: Thank You – [Your Name] Interview for [Job Title]


Dear [Interviewer’s Name],


Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you about the [Job Title] position. I enjoyed learning more about your goals for the team and how I might contribute. I was particularly excited to hear about your approach to [specific topic discussed].


Please let me know if there’s anything else you need from me. I look forward to hearing about the next steps.


Best regards,

[Your Name]





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Final Thoughts


A virtual interview is your chance to show that you're professional, adaptable, and ready to thrive in a modern work environment. With the right preparation—and the right language—you can turn a screen into your gateway to the job you want.


🎧 

Listen to our podcast for more interview tips: https://open.spotify.com/show/70wqLsO9Vf2B7dMFWzuLwx

☕ Support our work: https://buymeacoffee.com/businessena


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