You have grinded on your resume and cover letter, and you got asked to interview! Congratulations! Though interviews can sometimes be stressful, they indicate that a company sees its potential employee in you. Interviews are also a great networking opportunity that gets you out of your comfort zone and teaches you how to present yourself professionally. Remote interviews are not that different from the in-person ones; however, they do require more preparation. Here are 12 helpful tips for your next remote interview.
Depending on what kind of interview it is, phone or video, make sure to plan ahead and decide what type of technology you are going to use. If it is going to be just a phone call then double check to have the right number. However, if it is going to be a video chat make sure that you know what app you should be using. Whether it’s Zoom, Skype, or any other video app make sure to create an account if you don’t have one and know how to use it prior to the interview. This will save you time on the day of your interview and free you from unnecessary stress.
For everything to go smoothly you want to make sure that you have an excellent service and internet connection. If you don’t have a good connection at home find a quiet place with a better one. It is crucial to have a good connection for a remote interview so make sure to plan ahead and find a spot with a good service!
Speaking of location. It is essential to know where you are going to be interviewing and prep your area before the day of your remote interview. If you don’t live alone, consider driving to a peaceful quiet place, or simply let your parents/roommates know that you are going to have an interview and politely ask for some quiet time. Make sure to clean your area so that you are not distracted by anything while interviewing with your potential future employer.
If your remote interview is going to be a video chat, then make sure to find a location with good lighting. Personally, I believe that natural light beats everything; however, if it is not an option, then consider using a desk lamp. Good lighting will make your remote interview flow so much smoother.
This is probably not what you want to hear, but you’ve got to get out of your PJs! Even if your interview is going to be just over the phone, it is crucial to look presentable in order to feel professional and confident. “Dress well, do well,” am I right? Make sure to wear business, appropriate clothing that you wear to an in-person interview. I would even recommend wearing shoes! It has been scientifically proven that our performance is significantly better when we are dressed up. So put your cutest business outfit on and knock it out of the park!
You must be prepared to talk about yourself and your work experience. Therefore don’t try to wing it. My advice, write some talking bullet points. Since your interview is either going to be over the phone or via a video chat, you will be able to have your notes in front of you (though if it’s going to be a video chat, don’t make it obvious). To avoid those “ums” and awkward silence, write out the skills and experience that you would like to talk about. However, when interviewing, don’t just read it off the paper! Speak calmly and confidently.
This is a universal interview tip: always do your research about the company before your interview! Know what the company stands for and what kind of employees it is looking for. Also, know the basics, such as where the company is based and what its goals are. After you have done your research, make sure to mention that you have the skills they are looking for. Are they looking for someone who can work independently? Mention your experience with working with minimal supervision and how well you did it. Always make sure to back up each skill with an example!
During the interview, make sure to show that you are engaged in the conversation. Focus on what you are being asked or told. Also, show some enthusiasm by smiling and laughing at appropriate times. Also, make sure to ask questions if something is unclear. The interview should have all of your attention!
Have your pen and paper ready to take notes on what you will be learning throughout your interview! Make sure to write down important dates, expectations, and dress code. Though you must take good notes, you also have to make sure that you are a good listener. Write quickly and use abbreviations so that your main focus is still on the person who is interviewing you.
Though your skills and work experience are what your employer might be asking about the most, don’t be shy to add if you are involved in other activities such as organizations and volunteering. Are you in a sorority/fraternity? Do you volunteer at a soup kitchen? Do you have a blog? Whatever you choose to pour your time and energy into is worth mentioning because those things require the skills that your future employer might be looking for! It is also important to mention those things to make yourself stand out from the rest!
At the end of your interview, you are going to be asked if you have any questions. Always, always, always ask questions! Prepare them before your interview and write down any that may come up during it. You will show that you are curious and serious about working for the company by asking questions. Some questions you might want to ask are: “What is your favorite thing about working for this company?” “What does a typical day of someone holding my position look like?” “How would my responsibilities change in three months?”. Personally, I would not ask about the pay yet. Show your interest in the position and the company to let your future employer know that you genuinely care.
At the very end of your interview, make sure to thank the person/people who interview you for their time. Make sure to express your enthusiasm for this opportunity. Also, follow up with a short thank-you email in which you can describe your hopes to be the right candidate for the position. A thank you goes a long way!
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