Remote job interviews are becoming more common these days. They allow companies to hire the best people without having to worry about geographic location. They also give candidates the opportunity to work from anywhere in the world.
For many of us, remote job interviews can be challenging because we can't rely on our body language to convey the right message. But there are some things you can do to make the most of a remote job interview.
Below, you'll find tips on how to prepare for and hopefully master a remote job interview:
Before the interview
- Prepare for different time zones. If you're interviewing with someone from another country, take that into account and adjust your sleep schedule accordingly.
- Make sure you've a good internet connection and a suitable webcam and microphone.
- Master the platform chosen for the interview (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, etc.), especially if you've never used it before. You can make a few test calls with a friend or family member to practice the features. You don't want a technical problem to hurt your chances of a successful interview.
- Be prepared for video quality issues. If possible, do a test run with your interviewer before the actual interview to make sure everything is set up correctly and that there are no issues with video quality or sound.
- Prepare your answers well, research about the company, and know what they do. Make sure you've all your documents ready ahead of time. This includes all documentation and any notes you've taken before the interview.
- Dress up as if you were going to a face-to-face interview. It's still important to make a good impression even if it is remote.
- Prepare some questions to ask the interviewer to show that you're interested in the company and get a better understanding of the position you've applied for.
- Choose a place for the interview where there are no distractions. You don't want kids arguing in the background or the neighbor's dog barking.
- Don't neglect your background. Choose a clean background like a wall behind you. Good natural light often works best. If you're going to use a virtual background, choose it wisely.
- Have a glass of water or coffee ready in case you need it during the interview.
When it's time for the interview
- Sit down in front of the computer 10 minutes before the scheduled interview. This will give you enough time to take a deep breath, use some relaxation techniques, and get in the mood for the interview.
- Go into the online meeting a few minutes early. This will give you a chance to check your equipment and all the technical details one last time.
- Remember to unmute yourself as soon as you enter the meeting.
- Eye contact is important, even when interviewing remotely. Look the interviewer in the eye. The trick is usually to look into the webcam and not at yourself on the screen. We tend to look at everything that's happening on the screen, but people sitting on the other side can easily tell if you're distracted. Also remember that eye contact builds trust.
- Use hand gestures. Body language is especially important in online interviews because the interviewer usually only sees your upper body. The right gestures affect what you say and how you come across. Here's a tip: If you maintain an open posture instead of crossing your arms, your interviewer may trust you and the information you're sharing more.
- It's good to have your notes at hand, but try not to refer to them too often. This will help you look competent, confident, and prepared.
- Try to stay calm and collected. Don't rush your answers. If you need a few moments to think about your answer or collect yourself, you can ask the interviewer, "Can I think about your question for a few seconds before I answer?" Most interviewers will understand, and if they don't, it could be an indication that they aren't the right people to work with.
- Encourage conversation rather than perform a monolog. To keep the interview from becoming monotonous and boring, ask the right questions or make comments that keep the conversation lively.
- At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for their time and politely ask when you can expect the company's decision.
After the interview
- When the interview is over, relax a bit or do something you enjoy. Have a cup of coffee or go for a walk. Don't be too hard on yourself. Tell yourself that you did your best. No one is perfect, and a good, understanding employer doesn't expect perfection.
- If you haven't heard back from your interviewer in the time mentioned, consider sending them a follow-up message. This is perfectly fine and shows that you're interested in the job.
