Virtual interviews have become the new norm over the past few years, but there are times when you’ll meet with potential employers in person (and will still need to bring those hard copies of your resume and talk to yourself in the car on the way there). I’ve prepped over 1,000 candidates for both in-person and virtual interviews, and here are my go-to tips for success: 1. Set the “virtual” stage. If it’s a video interview, check your tech and test the meeting link. What will be visible in the background of your screen? (Bonus points: Download the company’s logo as your background!) Put your accessories away, put your phone in airplane mode and have a pen and paper to take notes. Dress up rather than down. It is always better to be overdressed then underdressed—in person or on a screen. 2. Do your homework—on the company and yourself. Research the four Ps on their website: Products, Press Releases, Personnel, Position. If you’re working with a recruiter, lean on them! Your recruiter knows the hiring team and the company. It’s literally their job to help you to get the job. Review your previous positions, responsibilities and accomplishments. What are you most proud of? 3. Know your motivation for change. Know your one- to two-minute elevator pitch on yourself. Highlight your educational and career highlights, and throw in a fun fact if it feels right. Why are you interested in the company or position? Be specific. Be passionate! This is your opportunity to show off all the research you’ve done. Be positive—you never want to speak negatively about current or prior employers.

Interview process at Accenture was smooth, well-structured, and overall easy to navigate. The communication throughout the process was professional, and the interview rounds were not overly difficult if you were prepared with the basics. The only downside was the timeline. The complete hiring process took almost one year from initial application to final onboarding, which felt quite time-consuming. Apart from the delay, the overall experience was positive and organized.