Is Your Child (or Parent) Ready to Step Into the Digital Landscape?

Since 2020, remote work opportunities have been on the rise, and these increasing numbers are not expected to stop any time soon. The World Economic Forum Future job reports in 2024: “The number of these global digital jobs that can be performed remotely from anywhere is expected to rise by roughly 25% to around 92 million jobs.” Over the last five years, one name has stood out in the digital space: Zoom. In 2025, Zoom reported reaching 300 million daily users—and with that growth came a surge in new applicants seeking to take advantage of the expanding opportunities. This means more competition in the job market as a whole. So how do we ensure our students stand out in the new digital landscape? 

First, to understand what it means to be successful in this new digital world, we must look at common mistakes people make. A study from The British Psychological Society states that nearly 30% of interviewers make their decision within the first five minutes of meeting a candidate. First impressions can make or break the entire outcome of the interview, and small things like bad camera angles, poor lighting, or casual clothes can be a huge deterrent to the applicant.

Unfortunately, the relaxed environment at home can lead to a series of missteps when it comes to Zoom communication. The etiquette people follow in traditional in-person meetings should also apply to the virtual platform. Dressing for success is an excellent first step. Recruiting in Motion states, “Dressing appropriately shows that you take the interview seriously and have a professional attitude. It demonstrates respect for the opportunity and the company you are interviewing with. The way you present yourself visually is often the first impression that the interviewer forms.” Just because a person is interviewing from home does not mean the tone of the interview should be any less professional.

​Additionally,  there are some obstacles in a Zoom meeting or interview that the applicant may not anticipate. Technology problems often cause a lot of anxiety for both the interviewer and interviewee because they are unexpected and interfere with the flow of the interview process. Testing out your Zoom and internet connection before the interview makes a huge difference in both reducing the anxiety of the applicant and ensuring they are well prepared before the interview.​

Beyond just appearance, there are a few more key steps to ensure that your digital impression is a positive one. Zoom’s household blog highlights the importance of staying engaged through a virtual connection. This can be achieved with simple tips, such as eye contact and body language, throughout the call. While speaking, look at the camera rather than yourself. Close out all other distractions and make sure to be in a setting where you can give your full attention to the session.  Another common mistake in virtual meetings is having a chaotic, unprofessional, or messy background. This can take away from the speaker’s credibility and poise. Having a plain background or blurred background will ensure that all eyes are on you.

Everyone knows the Golden Rule in Life: treat others the way you want to be treated.  However, in the digital landscape, we must follow the Golden Rule of Zoom; virtual meetings need to be just as professional as in-person meetings. As digital communication and professionalism become a key characteristic of successful individuals, parents can play a part in their child’s success by enrolling in digital courses or practicing digital interview skills. Whether through structured practice, Zoom-based programs, or communication courses, the time to increase your child’s proficiency is now.. The more opportunities a child has to master these virtual skills, the more opportunities they will have to excel in their chosen profession or academic goals.

“Remote Global Digital Jobs Whitepaper.” World Economic Forum, Jan. 2024, www.weforum.org/stories/2024/01/remote-global-digital-jobs-whitepaper. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

“Netiquette Rules Online Students Should Know.” University of the Potomac, www.potomac.edu/netiquette-rules-online-students-should-know. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.

“Remote Work Is Here to Stay.” Ladders, Inc., Q3 2021 report, www.theladders.com. Accessed 4 Nov. 2025.