Preparing For Online Job Interviews 101
The Lowdown
In this day and age, remote working, whereby one can work from home or from another location instead of in an office, is quickly becoming the norm. Most companies have implemented work-from-home policies, to the point that even job interviews can be held over video communication platforms such as Zoom, Google Meet and Skype.
Although this type of interview sounds less daunting – especially as you won’t need to travel to the actual workplace, nor will you be in the same physical space as the interviewer – it still needs to be taken seriously as you would traditional, in-person interviews.
Be Prepared
Of course, there are some differences that need to be considered if your interview takes place online. To nail it, you need to follow these steps:
- Choose the Right Space
Choose a separate room or area that’s quiet and free of distractions. Turn off your television or stereo, silence your phone, close any browser tabs that emit audio, and inform your spouse, roommate(s) and/or children that they mustn’t interrupt you during the interview (or at least tell them to keep as quiet as possible).
To limit any unavoidable noises or sounds – dogs barking, vehicles passing by, coughing, etc – use the communication platform’s mute button. This prevents the interviewer from being startled or distracted; by the same token, it shows them that you’re being courteous, polite and you’re taking the interview seriously.
- Background is Key
It’s a comforting feeling to be in your own space while participating in an online interview. However, an untidy or cluttered background can reflect badly on you, as the interviewer will likely think you are unprofessional, disorganised and not taking the interview seriously. This can damage your chances of getting your dream job.
Make sure the background looks professional. Try to set your computer up in front of a blank wall or in a space where there are minimal yet tasteful decorations, eg. a bookshelf, landscape paintings, motivational posters, etc.
Preferably, clean up the space the night before the interview. Doing so at the last minute will only hasten your anxiety levels, plus you’ll appear frazzled and distracted in the eyes of the interviewer.
- Let That Body Speak
Body language speaks for you when you’re not talking. You need to be mindful of the fact that you’ll be on camera during the interview, and that the interviewer will immediately notice if you’re not paying attention, or if you’re making faces.
Smile and make eye contact to create a connection between you and the interviewer, as it shows them that you’re confident, interested and being courteous. Nodding also shows that you’re paying attention to what they’re saying.
Look directly into the camera while you’re speaking to create the illusion that you’re looking at them rather than something else (or yourself in the display screen). Sit up straight in your seat, refrain from fidgeting when you or the other person is speaking, and use your hands only when necessary, such as when you’re highlighting your skillset.
If you’re camera-shy, familiarise yourself with the platform beforehand and practise speaking to the screen like you would in front of a mirror. This will make you feel more comfortable and relaxed on the day of the actual interview.
- Dress Appropriately
Like the background, you also want to convey a confident and professional appearance. Therefore, your attire should be clean, neat and tidy. Dress appropriately yet comfortably – check the company’s website (or social media accounts) for any information about their dress code, and dress accordingly, eg. wear a pantsuit while being interviewed for a senior marketing position.
However, even if you’re applying to work at a company where the environment is informal and casual, you still want to look more professional than the current employees during the interview. This will show the interviewer that you not only have pride in your appearance, but that you also are taking the interview – and the position you’ve applied for – seriously.
- Use a Computer
Most video communication platforms can be accessed on tablets and mobile phones. However, interviewers won’t be impressed by the shaky movements, the awkward camera angles or the device (noisily) falling over. Not to mention that holding a device for the duration of the interview can be taxing on your hands and arms; your discomfort will show on-screen, which may prove distracting for both you and the interviewer.
Use a desktop computer or laptop if one is available. Make sure it’s fully charged or plugged in so that it doesn’t shut off in the middle of the interview. You also want to make sure that it’s connected to the Internet – therefore, test your LAN or Wi-Fi settings beforehand.
- Stay Up to Date
If an interviewer schedules an interview via a platform you don’t normally use (eg. Zoom), don’t leave it at the last minute to download and test the app. If you already have the app, it’s crucial that it’s up to date – if not, the app may not work properly, or not at all, on the day of the interview.
Update the app at least one day before the interview. This will give the software update time to install and for you to restart the computer so that update goes into effect. For example, an update for Skype may take two hours to complete, while restarting your laptop could take at least 30 minutes.
You’re Ready!
With these pointers in mind, you’ll be sure to ace the interview in no time – again, treat it as you would an in-person interview and give it your best shot. Good luck!