17 Nov Remote Interviews
How to prepare for a remote interview
The way in which interviews are conducted is changing. While remote interviews are not new, they are becoming a lot more common and it is now not unusual for candidates to be offered a position without ever meeting the interviewer in person.
Key points
- The core principles of a video-based interview are the same as for a face-to-face interview. It’s a 1 two way process where they get to know more about you, and you get to more about them
- If this guide doesn’t provide you with enough information, please give us a call. We can provide you with some additional advice to help you navigate video-based interviews
- Most will use Microsoft Teams or Zoom, but possibly their own bespoke platform. Once you receive your invitation it’s recommended to test that the platform works for you.
Before your interview
Find an appropriate space to hold the video call and if possible try and face a light source as this will present you more clearly to the interviewer.
Prepare the same way as you would for a face-to-face interview. For example research your interviewer, read the job description again, visit the company website. Think about your career history and examples of previous experiences that you’d like to share.
Dress as you would for a face-to-face interview. If you are unsure then remember that with interviews it’s better to be too formal than too informal.
On the day test the video platform to ensure your audio and camera are working.
Unsure how to use the video platform? Ask your recruiter for help.
Life Happens
We are parents, we are carers, we share apartments, our dog is noisy and our online orders can arrive at the door any time. And let’s be honest, whilst many people are trying to find flexible and pragmatic solutions to life, it’s not always successful at the moment.
We appreciate that things might not go smoothly for both our interviewers and our candidates.
- It’s okay if your environment isn’t optimal. Address this upfront and let the interviewer know if you anticipate the environment might be unusual. We are all in this together.
- Consider a Plan B. If there isn’t good bandwidth or the technology just isn’t working, then ensure your phone is nearby in case you need to move to a telephone interview.
- If there are interruptions try not to let this stress you. It’s normal and understandable. You can request that the interviewer pauses the interview for a few minutes.
If there is anything you are still unsure of or would just like some advice. Your consultant will be more than happy to help, so feel free to drop us an email or give us a call.