An interview for a remote job differs immensely from the run-of-the-mill in-person interview. Almost all remote job interviews are done virtually through video conference tools. There are many more factors that an applicant has to work with, compared to the standard interview where your outfit, resumé, and commute are the only things an interviewee needs to prepare ahead of time. If you need guidance with landing a job interview, it starts with having the right tools for the job search process. You can check out executive resumé samples to assist you in curating a compelling resumé to help you land a job interview.
- Thoroughly research the company
As soon as you get your scheduled interview, research as much as you can about the company and the interviewer. Go the extra mile by browsing their social media accounts and Googling them. Most of the relevant information can be found through press releases or posts made by a third party, so it’s useful to know your way around search engines and dig through the information that is not readily available on Google’s first page.
Having sufficient or even plentiful knowledge about the company without the interviewer having to explain basic, public information saves the interviewer’s time. It also gives the impression that you are prepared and keen on the job opportunity.
- Ensure a stable and strong internet connection
There are times in the day when the internet connection is slower than average. If your interview is scheduled during your connection’s “down time,” reschedule for a time when your connection is at its peak.
If you are interviewing for a remote job position, your internet connection’s reliability plays a big part in whether or not you will get chosen for the job. Securing your internet connectivity is one less thing to worry about for the interview.
- Mind your space; check your gadgets
Because you can interview from any space of your choosing, select one that is appropriate for a professional interview. This Ladders article “How to make your space look better before your next Zoom meeting or interview” can help you with that. Ensure the space is well-lit, noise-free, and that the visible background is free from clutter or distracting visuals that will interfere with your interview.
- Double-check your gadgets and make sure they are in good working condition:
- Clean your camera lens.
- Your laptop or computer’s microphone should pick up audio without a hitch.
- Set the speaker volume to an appropriate level.
- Download the application you plan to use for the interview, and familiarize yourself with it.
4. Prepare your questions
Showing interest in the organization through relevant questions displays a genuine interest in the company and job opportunity. This is why we highlighted the importance of researching the company you will be interviewing for ahead of time. This will allow you to craft any questions you may have left that were not answered via your research.
Knowing that the job vacancy is for remote work, make a list of specific questions about working remotely, especially if the experience is new to you. Questions about work schedules, time zones, communication and collaboration tools, and employee motivation and morale are important, especially with work-from-home arrangements.
- Eliminate distractions
Put your phone on silent, turn the television off, and keep the door closed. If you live with others—for example, pets, roommates, or parents—inform them about your scheduled interview to prevent them from coming in and out of your space or causing any disturbance that could interrupt or distract you from your interview.
- Dress to impress
Although you are being interviewed from the comfort of your own home, you should still dress professionally. What to wear to a job interview still applies to remote job interviews.
It might be tempting to dress only for the part visible by the interviewer, but it’s best to dress from head to toe. Fully dressing for the interview helps place you firmly in the role, gain confidence, and get you in the zone. When selecting your outfit, choose solid, subtle colors over bold, printed shirts. Your outfit should compliment you, not steal attention from you.
The standard rules for an in-person review still apply to online video interviews. The difference is that you, the interviewee, are responsible for securing the venue and environment and making sure everything is ready and your tools work. If it were an in-person interview, it would be the other way around. Half the battle is the technical aspect. Once you’ve aced that, you’re well on your way to a successful remote job interview.
Post written solely for SPLICE by Linda Alexander.