Interviewing remotely –  Tips for success

Ever since the pandemic of 2020, remote or hybrid working has become the new standard. It’s not hard to see why, either — statistics prove that employees are happier, and more productive, when they’re given the freedom to escape the confines of the office and work from wherever they please. 

There are a raft of advantages for employers, too. Going fully remote means fewer overhead costs for things like rent and energy usage, and whether a business is planning a recruitment drive within its own country’s borders or opting for international talent — a US company hiring in Canada, for example — they also have access to a much wider pool.

But if you’re an applicant who’s interviewing for a remote position, how can you maximise your chances of conquering your fellow candidates? Is there such a gulf between an in-person and a remote interview? 

Well, yes; it turns out there is. But don’t worry — if you’ve never been interviewed remotely (or your last video call with a potential employer could’ve gone better) we’re here to help.

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Look at the camera – not at the screen!

Although it may feel unnatural, focusing on the camera instead of the interviewer’s face on the screen will give the impression of direct engagement. This small adjustment can significantly enhance your presence and convey confidence and attentiveness.

We know how tempting it can be to monitor your appearance or reactions, but doing so can detract from the flow of conversation and diminish your rapport with the interviewer. By directing your gaze towards the camera, you’re giving the interviewer a strong visual cue that you’re alert, you’re listening to them, and you’re primed to answer any questions they throw your way. 

To help with this, consider positioning the video conferencing window near the camera to simulate face-to-face interaction. This way, even if you do become momentarily distracted by your virtual reflection, it’ll be far less noticeable. 

Be on time!

Louis XVII once said, “Punctuality is the politeness of kings”, and we tend to agree. Being prompt demonstrates your reliability and respect for the interviewer’s time, and it’s also remarkably simple, given that you’re only expected to switch your laptop on and join a call. Of course, this is a double-edged sword as it also means that lateness is less likely to be tolerated.

To prevent this, join the call 5-10 minutes before the interview begins. Arriving early allows you to compose yourself and mentally prepare for the interview ahead. Use this time to review your notes, gather your thoughts, and ensure you’re in the right mindset to present yourself effectively. Avoid last-minute rushes or distractions that could disrupt your focus and detract from your performance.

And if the worst should happen and lateness is unavoidable, promptly notify the interviewer, apologize, and offer to reschedule if necessary.

Dress for the part

Even though you’re not meeting face-to-face, dressing professionally for a remote interview is still essential. Your appearance reflects your professionalism and respect for the opportunity. Opt for attire that aligns with the company culture and the position you’re applying for. A polished appearance demonstrates your commitment and seriousness about the role.

Looking sharp isn’t just for your interviewer’s benefit, either. Donning a professional, coordinated outfit will help boost your confidence and mindset during the interview. When you look the part, you’re more likely to exude a sense of competence and authority, positively influencing the interviewer’s perception of you. Just remember to consider the company’s dress code and industry standards when selecting your outfit — don’t opt for a tailored suit if the company culture is geared towards more casual attire!

Pay attention to grooming and personal presentation, too. Style your hair neatly, maintain a clean and tidy appearance, and avoid distracting accessories or clothing choices. Remember, your goal is to make a positive impression that highlights your qualifications and suitability for the position. Your appearance is there to complement your proposal, not distract from it. 

Set the scene

A little like a set designer on a Hollywood film production, it’s your job to beautify your background and ensure your environment is conducive to interviewing success.

Firstly, consider the lighting conditions in your chosen location and adjust as needed to ensure your face is well-illuminated and visible to the interviewer. Soft, natural lighting is ideal for creating a flattering and professional appearance on camera. Position yourself in front of a window or use supplementary lighting sources to enhance visibility and minimize shadows.

With the lighting sorted, it’s time to declutter. Remove any rogue piles of clothes or bric-a-brac from the background of your shot. Adding an object of interest — a houseplant or wall-hanging picture — is always a good option. 

Finally, optimize your audio setup to ensure clear and crisp communication throughout the interview. Use a high-quality microphone and headphones to minimize background noise and improve sound quality. Test your equipment beforehand, and be sure to inform your housemates or family members — that way you won’t have any unexpected visitors!

Ask them questions too

Reeling off answers robotically will only get you so far. Keep in mind that employers want someone who’s genuinely interested in the company and can demonstrate they’re a good fit for the culture. At the end of the interview, you’ll be asked, “Do you have any questions?” —  this is your last chance to shine, so don’t squander it!

This is an opportunity to pose insightful questions about the company, the team, or the role. Prepare a list of inquiries beforehand based on your research of the company and job description. Tailor your questions to demonstrate your understanding of the organization’s objectives and challenges, showing that you’re invested in its success. 

Avoid generic or easily answered questions and instead focus on topics that invite meaningful discussion and provide deeper insights into the role and company culture. You could even adapt some of these interview questions that we cooked up earlier! Oh, and don’t forget to actually listen to the interviewer’s responses, either.

So there you have it — plenty of solid tips you can use to ace your next remote interview or even host your own! For more about the world of business, HR, and company culture, check out our blog archive here. Thanks for reading!