COVID-19 has more people doing remote work than ever before. This includes hiring managers too! Even when the “new normal” begins to convert back to the old, the way we work is likely to be changed forever. In-person interviews will return eventually, but the option for remote ones will also be present still. It may even be a BIG part of how hiring managers screen candidates or a required step before an in-person interview.
Since remote interviews are unconventional but part of life now, it is important to know how to prepare for them. Check out these tips that are sure to help you ace your remote interview!
Test Your Technology!
Just like you wouldn’t get to an in-person interview exactly on time, you shouldn’t be logging onto your computer just 2 minutes before the scheduled video call. Take the day before or even hours leading up to your interview to make sure your internet connection is good, you know how to access the video call and to make sure your camera and sound are working!
Mind your Space and Presentation.
Since normal interviews typically take place in conference rooms or offices, It is a good idea to find a space in your home that is organized and quiet. Somewhere with a simple background and good lighting is most professional. Commotion in the background of an interview or even clutter can serve as a distraction to you or even the interviewer on the other end since they are the ones looking at your screen.
Be Sure to Make Eye Contact.
This one is a little tricky since It’s tempting to look at your image or the other person on your screen. Remember, looking straight into the camera is the only way to make eye contact in a video call so doing anything else may make it look like your unfocused. Even though the interview environment is different, the same principles still stand! Being confident and maintaining eye contact is key to having a good interview.
Still Dress the Part!
This one is pretty self-explanatory. Even though you’re not going into an office, the interviewer can still see at least some of your clothing. There is no reason you should be dressed any less professional simply because an interview is remote. Some things to avoid that may be distracting in a video call are busy patterns or lots of jewelry. White also typically does not look good on camera so stick with maybe blue or other neutral colors!
Keep Your Resources Handy!
It’s a good idea to have a copy of your resume, cover letter and maybe job application printed out in front of you for your remote interview. Pulling them up on your computer is not a good idea because you will have to switch tabs and your eyes will be wandering. A notepad can also be a good idea to jot down information or questions you may have. And just like a regular interview, be prepared do your research prior and keep that information handy too.
Be Mindful of Time.
In-person interviews are much harder to cut off if the employer is uninterested in a candidate or vice-versa. Because of this, it is important to ask open-ended questions that keep the conversation going. It is tricker to be personable over a video call so creating discussion when possible is a great idea, but don’t overdo it with too much unnecessary chatter.
Body Language Matters!
Just as body language plays a huge part during in-person interviews, make sure that your posture and facial expressions are optimized during the remote interview. Slumping down in your chair or fidgeting looks unprofessional and can be distracting. Even being aware of how close you are to the camera is important! You can use your hands to speak and exaggerate points but you don’t want to be to up close or obnoxious.
These tips and tricks are sure to make you have a successful remote interview! Simply treat it like a regular interview and be confident! Once you’ve finished the interview, sit back and wait for a follow-up. It’s even a great idea to send an email to the interviewer thanking them for their time.
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