Imagine a case where you apply for a job. Put in your stellar qualifications and experience on the resume, and get the job. No interview with all the questions and stress. That won’t happen any time soon. In most cases, you are not the only one applying for the position. The employer also needs to see if you are a good fit, just as you want to know if they are a good fit.
While interviews are based on good standing, most people hate them. It comes with having to look your best and make that lasting first impression. It gets even hard when it is remote.
The current world system has seen most organizations embrace working from home. This follows the lockdown with the coronavirus still on. You will most likely apply for the job, attend the interview, and even work remotely.
As a new way of doing things, most job seekers are not conversant with interviewing remotely. That is where this guide comes in. Follow through for all you need to ace your remote interview.
Benefits of Remote Interview
Most people prefer walk-in interviews due to their familiarity. They are used to interviewing in person; it becomes weird having it online. Still, remote interviews come with several advantages.
The first of the benefits is time management. Some people have had to cancel interviews before due to mishaps when traveling. Others have also run late, which doesn’t work for you as a first impression. With the remote interview, you have all the time to prepare.
The remote interview also works to your strengths on familiarity. You can choose any place that works for you. The more you are comfortable, the better you are at answering the questions. You won’t feel as much pressure.
A remote interview is also low cost. You don’t spend a lot trying to look the best dressed in the room. You also cut down on traveling and other accompanying expenses. In most cases, you already have your home office in place. If not, then you only need a few home office supplies to set up everything.
Most interviewers also find remote interviewing convenient. It is time and resource-saving. They don’t have to prepare for the office to meet several candidates.
With benefits in place, you can now get preparing for the interview.
Preparing for a Remote Interview
With all the benefits that come with remote interviewing, the rest is all for your acing. The only difference between physical and remote interviewing is the location. Otherwise, you still have to prepare the same way.
Go through the standard interview questions like the reasons you need them and why you are best suited for them. Also, understand your strengths and weaknesses. It is also the time to look into your career goals and where you see yourself in the next few years.
These questions might seem silly on the face. It even seems silly that companies keep asking them over and over again. However, it is the best possible way to get to know you and if you fit their company.
Consider a mock interview where you ask the questions and answer. Ensure that you tailor every response to mirror the company you are applying to. The interview needs to know that you understand the role you are applying to.
Take time to learn more about the company and your role. Look into the mission, achievement, market share, and even the competition. With these, you can then understand how you will fill the position.
What to do During a Remote Interview
Working from home is a dream for many. It is convenient and frees up time for other engagements. You, however, first have to convince the hiring panel you deserve the opportunity.
You will have to go the physical interview way by showing up on time. The first impression still matters. Showing up late or failing to show up gives a poor reflection on you. In the form the company if something arises and you cannot make it, or you have to come in late.
Working remotely needs you to be skillful in what you do. Take the time to present your abilities. It is the only way the company knows if you are the best fit.
Some of the competencies the company need is your ability to work independently. You should also know when and how to escalate issues without messing up. You also need to show your digital skills.
Pay attention to what the company considers important. Some would provide for specific softwares for the job. Demonstrate you have the knowledge and skills to run the provided applications. By knowing, the company won’t have to spend more time training. This is a plus for your consideration.
You also need to have a few questions for the interviewers. Ask questions relevant to the company and your company. This sets you apart as having researched the position and that you are interested.
Video Skills on a Remote Interview
There is no way you are going to ace your interview if you have poor video skills. You don’t have to worry. Several video applications like zoom are available. The company would let you know beforehand on the one to use.
Take time to familiarize yourself with the video application. Download it, then try some mock video calls if free. Learn how to block background noise and other application settings.
Your surrounding matters when it comes to the remote interview. Prepare an organized and orderly background. Avoid having clutter on your background that draws attention away from you. You can also consider professional backgrounds if the video application supports them.
Your physical presentation also matters. As much as you interview remote, it doesn’t make the whole thing casual. Get dressed and appear professional, just as you would for the physical interviews.
Bottom Line
A remote interview gives the interview less about you to work with. You thus have to make the best first impression to get the job. You also need an equally professional set and background: proper dressing and the right attitude then matches all these up.
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