How to prepare for remote job interviews

Preparing for a remote job interview can be challenging, but there are some tips and best practices that can help you succeed. Here are some of the tips curated by OpporTechies to preparing for remote job interviews:

Set up your space: Choose a quiet, comfortable, and professional-looking location for your interview, and make sure your background is clean and uncluttered. Check your lighting, camera, microphone, and internet connection before the interview, and avoid any potential interruptions or distractions.

Practice with the technology: Familiarize yourself with the platform or software that you will use for the interview, such as Zoom, Skype, or Google Meet. Test your audio and video quality, and make sure you know how to mute, unmute, share your screen, and use other features. Have a backup plan in case of technical issues, such as a phone number or an alternative app.

Research the company and the role: Learn as much as you can about the company’s mission, vision, values, culture, and goals, and how they have adapted to the remote work environment. Review the job description and requirements, and prepare examples of how your skills, experience, and achievements match them. You can also research the interviewer’s background and role, and find some common ground or interests.

Prepare your questions: Have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer, such as about the company’s remote work policies, expectations, communication, feedback, and culture. You can also ask about the next steps in the hiring process, the timeline, and the salary range. Avoid asking questions that are too personal, irrelevant, or easily found online.

Dress professionally and appropriately: Even though you are not meeting in person, you should still dress as if you were. Choose an outfit that is suitable for the company’s culture and the role you are applying for, and avoid anything that is too casual, flashy, or distracting. Make sure your clothes are clean, ironed, and fit well.

Build rapport and connection: One of the challenges of remote interviews is establishing a rapport and connection with the interviewer, since you are not able to shake hands, make eye contact, or read body language. To overcome this, you can use verbal and non-verbal cues, such as smiling, nodding, expressing enthusiasm, and using the interviewer’s name. You can also engage in some small talk at the beginning and end of the interview, and show interest in the interviewer’s work and experience.

Be confident and authentic: Show confidence in your abilities and value, and avoid being too humble, nervous, or arrogant. Speak clearly, concisely, and positively, and avoid filler words, jargon, or slang. Be honest and genuine about your strengths, weaknesses, and goals, and avoid exaggerating or lying. Demonstrate your passion and motivation for the role and the company, and why you are a good fit for them.

Follow up and thank the interviewer: After the interview, send a thank-you email to the interviewer, expressing your appreciation, interest, and enthusiasm for the opportunity. You can also restate your qualifications, highlight your main points, and address any concerns or questions that may have arisen during the interview. Keep your email brief, polite, and professional, and send it within 24 hours of the interview.