Even before COVID-19 came along to disrupt daily life, remote interviews were becoming more and more common. With the advent of faster internet, secure interview platforms, busier work days, and applicants who were geographically unavailable for the traditional in-house meeting, companies turned to the internet for a more viable option. Enter the remote interview.
The remote interview presents its own set of challenges including a solid internet connection as well as computer hardware needs. But regardless of the manner of the interview the applicant has the same single desire – leave the interviewer with the best favorable impression possible. Simply put – Hire Me.
Keep these common sense tips in mind for your remote interview.
Tech Check – Prior to the interview be sure to test your computer equipment. Try out a Zoom or Skype chat to verify your computer hardware, software and internet connection will handle a remote interview without glitches. Is the microphone working? How is the camera angle? The interview will go downhill fast if they seem to be interviewing your chin and neck or if your voice is cutting out repeatedly.
Background – Unlike the traditional interview, the camera used during your remote meeting will allow the interviewer a glimpse into your home. Be aware of what the interviewer will be seeing behind you. Clean up the area making sure your desk is organized and the space behind you is neat. If you choose to upload a background pick one that is professional.
Personal Appearance – Be it a traditional or remote interview presentation is always key. Just as if you were walking into the interviewer’s office you should be dressed nicely. Your outfit should be appropriate for the job and demonstrate that you fit the company’s look. Though you may be tempted to dress only for the limited view of the camera, remember that what you wear may not only affect your demeanor, but may also come into view if you need to rise from your sitting position. Those old jeans may not be the impression you want to leave in the interviewer’s mind as they log off.
Posture – It is natural for you to be more comfortable at home, to relax mentally and physically. This is great if you are sharing time with friends and family, but during the interview you will want to present an alert and correct posture. A proper computer chair with back support can aid you with this especially in overly long interviews.
Quiet Time – Your home can be a noisy place. Loud children, pets, TVs, street noises and any other number of distractions can disrupt your one-on-one time with the interviewer. Plan ahead and either find a quiet location or arrange for the children and pets to be away from your immediate area during the interview. Turn off the tv and put your cellphone away. Be sure to shut the window to muffle stray street noises especially if the city decided that this was the perfect day to fix that pot hole in the road outside your house.
Interview Prep – Just because your interview will take place online and in your own home is no reason to slack off on the traditional interview preparations. Do your research. Does the company have website? Has the company been in the news lately? What is its main purpose and how does the job you are applying for fit in? Be sure to be ready with your own questions. Have paper and pen nearby to take notes.
We recommend the following eBooks* to help you prepare:
- How to Get the Job You Want: 10 Practical Steps to Get a Better Job Quicker
- Knock 'Em Dead Job Interview: How to Turn Job Interviews into Paychecks
- Top Notch Interviews: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques from the First Call to Getting the Job You Want
Remember, this is going to be your best opportunity to show your prospective employer who you are and what you can bring to their business. Do everything you can to make sure that you and your surroundings shine during your remote interview. Bring your A game and good luck!
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