How to prepare for a virtual interview

Microsoft is closely following the Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) and working on our own response including implementing processes that promote candidate and employee safety. We have shifted all in-person interviews globally to be held virtually until further notice. We will make every effort to provide guidance along the way and minimize any disruptions to ensure a great candidate experience.

Prior to your virtual interview

If required, sign the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA). Certain teams require you to sign an NDA prior to your interviews. If you have been asked to do this, please review the document in your Action Center and sign to acknowledge that you agree to the terms. If you have not been asked to do this, there is no action for you.

Set up the teleconferencing technology. All interviews are held via Microsoft Teams and/or in case of some technical interviews, via a different 3rd party virtual platform. Your recruiting contact will inform you of the platform(s) used.

If your interview is confirmed to be on Microsoft Teams:

In preparation for your upcoming virtual Teams interview, download the Teams App to your computer. If you are unable to install Teams, there is an option to open Teams in your web browser; however, we recommend using the App where possible as this ensures that you have access to all the features. Please note the preferred browsers are Microsoft Edge and Google Chrome.

Test that the Teams App is working. You can join, leave, and re-join a Teams Meeting anytime.

Your recruiting contact will send a Microsoft Teams meeting ID# prior to your interview.

If your interview is confirmed to be on a different 3rd party platform:

You will be sent an email from your recruiting contact with specific instructions to install and test the platform prior to your interview.

Given the increased demand on virtual technologies, as a back-up, we recommend downloading the Teams App as well.

Check the rest of your technology setup. Confirm that your webcam and microphone are allowed and work properly in your chosen browser. Test your internet connection to ensure it is strong and working. If using headphones, make sure they are connected and selected prior.

If needed, request accommodations. If you need any accommodations or are concerned about Microsoft Teams or other third-party virtual platform not being fully accessible for you, please submit an accessibility request. We will reach out to discuss how to best support you.

Prepare for your virtual interview as for any other. Explore our interview tips page to help you get ready.

On the day of your interview

Conduct your interview in a well-lit and quiet environment that is as free of any distractions as possible. With many of us having to work from home while taking care of our families, we understand that quiet space can be challenging to find, for you as well as for the interviewers. While we encourage you to find a space where you can focus and not be interrupted, don’t be too stressed about it, we are all in this together!

If you are using a laptop, phone, or tablet, fully charge your device prior to the interview.

Switch your other devices onto silent mode; however, if possible, have your phone handy in case your interviewer might be having technical difficulties or is trying to reach out via phone or email.

Dress comfortably and use your best judgment based on the role you are interviewing for.

If your interview is on Teams, click on “Join the Microsoft Teams meeting” to connect.

If your interview is on a 3rd party platform, please follow the instructions provided by your recruiting contact by email.

Troubleshooting:

If you experience technical difficulties during your interview, close the App and re-join.

On Teams, if you still have trouble connecting, dial in from your phone using the toll-free number in the interview invite.

If you are still unable to connect after following the above troubleshooting steps, email or call your recruiting contact immediately.

FAQs:

Does this change apply to all roles?
Yes, all interviews globally have moved to virtual. If in doubt regarding any of the details, reach out to your recruiting contact to confirm.

Do I need to use video for the interview, or can I just dial in via phone?
Yes, if you are comfortable, turn on your camera for better interviewer engagement. We also understand that there are times when internet bandwidth can be causing issues and when it might need to be turned off.

Do you treat virtual interviews the same as onsite interviews?
Yes, although the setup is different, we treat virtual interviews the same as in-person.

Please reach out to your recruiting contact if you have any other questions.

How to prepare for a virtual interview

Prior to your virtual interview

On the day of your interview

Troubleshooting:

FAQs:

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