Navigating remote interviews can be difficult. For some people, the idea of interviewing through a camera takes the edge off, for others, it’s twice as nerve-wracking.
So many things can go wrong, some out of your control and some within it. Mastering this virtual interaction requires a lot of prep so we’ve devised a handy guide to help you leave a lasting impression on your potential employers.
Technical preparedness
We cannot stress this enough, test your equipment! Ensure that your computer, mobile, webcam, and microphone are all in good working condition.
Whether this means a test call with your best friend or even a call with us, double-check ahead of the call to avoid any delays.
Ensure that you’re also in a place with a stable internet connection and have a back-up! If possible, get to grips with your mobile phone’s personal hotspot.
And finally, be familiar with the software that you’ll be using for the interview. Every employer has a preference, whether that’s Zoom, Teams, Google Meet or Skype.
Check that you have the meeting link or ID ahead of the interview – you don’t want to be late!
The perfect location
Choose a quiet, well-lit space for your interview with no distractions or background noise. You will want to place your camera at eye level to establish a more personal connection with your interviewer.
You don’t necessarily need to kick people out of the house while you interview, but it’s a good idea to inform them that you have an interview and ask for some space.
Professional appearance
Despite it being a remote interview, maintaining a professional appearance is essential. It may be tempting to keep your joggers or pj bottoms on and just dress smart on top, but we wouldn’t advise it.
Dressing professionally will help you snap into that mindset and will in turn help you to present a more professional presence.
Eye contact can be tough for some people, but maintaining eye contact will allow you to look confident – so if you can, do it!
Slouching can also kill a remote interview. You may be in the comfort of your own home, but slouching can lead to your potential employer viewing you as uninterested.
Preparation is key
Like with any interview, preparation is key. You can demonstrate your interest in the company by researching its history, values, and recent achievements. Tailor your responses to show how your skills align with the company’s goals.
You can’t predict the questions that you’re interviewer will ask, but being prepared for common questions is a great starting point. Be ready to showcase your skills and experiences – practicing your responses to ensure clarity and confidence.
Interviews often end with the opportunity for questions. View this as a prompt for you to ask questions, don’t answer this by saying they’ve covered everything!
Preparing thoughtful questions about the company culture, team dynamics or the role itself will show that you’re interested.
One question we really love is asking your interviewer what their favourite thing about the company is.
Perfecting remote interviews is a combination of technical readiness, professional demeanor, and thorough preparation. By mastering these aspects, you can confidently navigate virtual interviews and increase your chances of making a positive impression on potential employers.