How to Prepare for Virtual Interviews This Summer

In 2025, virtual interviews remain a dominant part of the hiring process. Even as some companies return to hybrid or in-office work, the initial screening and even final rounds often take place online. For job seekers during the summer—whether you’re applying for internships, seasonal roles, or full-time positions—mastering the art of virtual interviews is essential.

With warmer months often translating to more casual schedules and environments, balancing professionalism with practicality can be tricky. Here’s your definitive guide to preparing for a successful virtual interview this summer.

Why Virtual Interviews Still Dominate

While in-person interviews are making a modest return, many companies—especially in tech, finance, healthcare, and media—still rely on video platforms like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, and Google Meet for interviewing. The benefits include:

• Wider talent pools (including remote and out-of-state candidates)
• Faster scheduling with fewer logistical hurdles
• Lower costs for companies conducting high-volume interviews

Step 1: Research the Role and Company Thoroughly

Just because it’s online doesn’t mean you can skip prep. Read up on:

• The company’s mission, values, and recent news
• The specific job description
• The team or department the role belongs to

Pro tip: Use platforms like Glassdoor or Blind to get insights from current and former employees. Also, look up your interviewers on LinkedIn to better understand their background.

Step 2: Prepare Your Answers and Questions

Summer roles and internships often prioritize cultural fit, learning attitude, and adaptability. For full-time roles, employers look for autonomy, remote productivity, and technical competency.

Sample Questions You May Be Asked:

• “How do you stay organized while working remotely?”
• “Tell me about a time you took initiative on a project.”
• “Why do you want to join us this summer?”

Questions You Can Ask:

• “What are the expectations for onboarding in a remote environment?”
• “How does the company foster communication in remote or hybrid teams?”
• “What would success look like in this role by the end of the summer?”

Step 3: Create the Perfect Setup

Summer often means you’re not always at your usual desk. Whether you’re traveling, staying with family, or working out of a shared space, ensure your tech and environment are optimized.

Checklist:

• Device: Fully charged laptop or desktop with webcam
• Internet: Stable Wi-Fi or wired connection; consider a mobile hotspot as backup
• Audio: Clear headset or earbuds with mic
• Lighting: Natural light or ring light in front of you—not behind
• Background: Neutral or tidy; virtual background as last resort

Practice Run

Do a test call with a friend or use a platform like Interviewing.io or Big Interview to simulate the experience.

Step 4: Dress for the Role (Even in the Heat)

It might be hot outside, but your attire still speaks volumes about your professionalism.

• Stick to neutral, solid colors (white, navy, gray)
• Avoid stripes or patterns that may cause webcam distortion
• Dress fully—you never know if you’ll need to stand up unexpectedly

Bonus tip: Light fabrics like cotton or linen are breathable and camera-friendly.

Step 5: Mind Your Virtual Body Language

Non-verbal cues matter even more on screen. Practice:

• Sitting up straight
• Looking into the webcam—not the screen
• Nodding or smiling to show engagement
• Keeping hands visible but still

Also, avoid distractions like phone notifications, background movement, or fidgeting.

Step 6: Prepare for the Unexpected

Summer weather can be unpredictable—storms, heatwaves, or power outages may disrupt your tech. Always:

• Have a backup device (tablet or phone with interview apps installed)
• Keep your charger nearby
• Communicate proactively if you encounter issues

Example message:

“Hi [Interviewer Name], I’m experiencing brief connectivity issues due to a storm but am logging back in now. Thank you for your patience!”

Step 7: Follow-Up with Impact

After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours, referencing something specific from your conversation.

Sample Follow-Up Email:

Subject: Thank You – [Your Name]

Hi [Interviewer Name],

Thank you for the opportunity to speak with you today about the [Role Title] position. I appreciated our discussion about [specific topic], and it made me even more enthusiastic about the possibility of joining your team this summer.

Please let me know if I can provide any additional information.

Best regards,
[Your Full Name]

Summer-Specific Virtual Interview Tips

1. Stay Cool (Literally)

If you’re sweating during an interview, it may impact your comfort and confidence. Use a quiet fan, lower thermostat, or schedule interviews in cooler parts of the day.

2. Consider Time Zones

If you’re traveling or working remotely, clarify your time zone. Always confirm with time references like:

“Just confirming we’re meeting at 2:00 PM EDT?”

3. Bring the Energy

Summer vibes can sometimes lead to low energy on calls. Counteract this by:

• Sitting upright (not lounging)
• Speaking clearly with energy
• Using hand gestures and animated expressions

Bonus: Tools to Help You Prepare

Tool	Purpose
Big Interview	Practice interviews with AI feedback
Grammarly	Proofread follow-up emails and written tests
Google Calendar	Sync interview invites and prep time
Otter.ai	Record and review mock interviews
Zoom/Meet Test Calls	Ensure platform familiarity

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Virtual interviews are here to stay—and summer is no excuse for sloppy setups or unprepared responses. By combining research, technical readiness, and thoughtful follow-through, you can leave a lasting impression that transcends the screen.

Whether you’re interviewing from your home office or a lakeside Airbnb, the goal is the same: project confidence, competence, and curiosity. Employers don’t expect perfection—but they do expect preparation.

So this summer, pack your sunscreen and your résumé—because opportunity doesn’t take a vacation.