We all saw some of the viral videos that circulated during the lockdowns earlier this year because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

People participating in Zoom calls would stand up to stretch . . . and they didn’t have pants on. There was even an instance in which a woman took her phone into the bathroom when “Mother Nature called.” (You should never need Zoom for that kind of call.)

If there is one positive aspect of social distancing, it’s that it has cut down on commute time to work for some people. For example, I simply walk downstairs to my office. And in the interest of “keeping it real,” what often accompanies this convenience is a general lack of personal hygiene.

Even I find it a touch annoying if I have an important Zoom call and I must peel off my PJs, put on clothes that are somewhat presentable, brush my hair, AND dab on some lipstick and mascara.

All things considered, companies have done a great job of pivoting into virtual hiring. Nearly everyone I have placed during the past few months has been hired through Zoom/Google Meets or Teams and everyone on the team is working remote. Companies are even shipping out laptops.

So what happens when a meeting goes from phone to Zoom? Or perhaps more precisely, what should happen? Here are my top tips:

#1—Dress like it is an in-person interview.

For the time being, these video interviews ARE the in-person interviews. You must “dress for success,” even if you’re doing so in a remote fashion.

#2—Conduct the interview standing up.

I know this might seem uncomfortable at first, but you will be much more engaged and present. (I challenge you to try it. You’ll like it.)

#3—Minimize distractions.

While most people offer a lot of grace when it comes to kids and animals interrupting interviews, you still must do your part to minimize the interruptions as best you can.

And, of course, last but not least . . . pants are NOT optional!