How to navigate through the remote job interview process and get hired
Remote has become a commonly used word when it comes to work and career. Therefore it’s no surprise we hear about ‘remote interview’ modality as well.
Since the outbreak of Covid-19, we’ve been hearing about employees working remotely, students studying remotely and companies advertising for remote job positions.
Remote business operations are gradually becoming a norm and this also includes the hiring and interviewing of job candidates.
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What is a remote job interview?
Before the outbreak of Covid-19, potential employees could be hired from telephone interviews, online job application forms or applying through social media, such as LinkedIn and Facebook.
Nowadays, remote hiring and interviewing frequently occurs through Zoom or other video conferencing platforms. Video conferencing has the benefit of both audio and visual communication with the candidate.
Remote interviews contains some elements of a traditional model, but also introduces new dynamics.
How does the remote hiring process work?
The first step of the remote hiring process begins with an online application.
The majority of Caribbean companies today have some sort of online presence – websites, social media platforms, digital advertising or a combination of all. Companies use these platforms to advertise internal vacancies. Companies also use online job boards.
Candidates should always have their tailored resumes when applying online. Tailoring the resume is critical given the volume and competitiveness of applications. With software being used to filter candidates, the wording of the resume also should correspond with the job description’s language.
Once you fit the ideal profile, you will likely be contacted for an interview. This usually comes as an email or telephone call where candidates are provided with the interview’s details.
How to prepare for a remote job interview?
Once you have an upcoming interview, smart preparation is key. Unlike traditional interviews, this discussion may take place on a laptop or other device, within your home.
Several factors need to be covered:
Professionalise your environment
The interviewer gets a glimpse into your home. Therefore, ensure you find a quiet, clean place within your home to conduct this interview. Avoid messy or places prone to loud, distracting noises. Remote interviews demand eye-pleasing visuals for the interviewer.
Select a neutral background for the interview. For example, you can sit in a part of the house where the décor is simple, so as to not distract attention. Your lighting must be appropriate. The lighting outside may be too harsh. Certain parts of your home may be too dark. To find the right balance, locate an area with some natural light, so your face can be clearly seen, but does not offer too much glare or brightness.
With remote interviews, you control the environment. If your surroundings appear messy or disorganised, this reflects badly on you.
Video conferencing interviews also need sound audio. Adjust your computer’s audio settings to ensure that you can hear clearly. Finally, always before the interview check your internet connection to minimize the likelihood of network disruptions on your end.
Finally, set your laptop or other device on a firm surface to maintain a steady level. Placing your device on your lap could lead to shifting if you move and affect the flow of the interview. It may also begin to get uncomfortable after a while.
Practice Makes Perfect!
Traditionally, you may practice your interview in front a mirror or with a friend. For a remote interview, it is useful to practice and record your interview on your device. This allows you to determine if the audio and visual performance is suitable. You will evaluate how you look on screen – is your face at eye level? How is our body language? Do you come across comfortable and confident? Or do you look a bit nervous and passive?
Assess the tone, pace and pitch of your voice on camera. Do you need to articulate your words more carefully or slow your pace to sound more assertive? This preparation is critical. When you prepare and practice in such a way, you will look and sound as their ideal candidate.
Observe usual interview rules
Whether it’s a remote or face-to-face interview, some things are constant and always relevant. Be on time. Research the company. Be genuine, warm and concise in your responses and remember to ask pertinent questions to indicate your interest in the company and the position.
One difference with a remote interview is that you can have a writing material nearby to make your own notes and record important information.
What should I wear to a remote interview?
You may assume, because you’re doing the interview at home, you can downgrade your appearance. Actually, whenever you’re interviewing for a position, remotely or otherwise, it is always essential that you dress for the company’s office culture.
You’re still making a first impression to a potential employer. Wearing your pajamas, or casual home clothing does not translate into a professional candidate. It is not the first impression you want to make on a future employer.
Nevertheless, you are allowed some degree of leniency. Some employers will not expect a full formal wear, unless you’re interviewing for a CEO or senior management position. You can opt for smart business casual. Smart business casual places a relaxed spin on black tie formality, yet still maintains a businesslike professionalism that creates a sound first impression.
Jackets and shirts with dark denim or chinos will be suitable for men or long-sleeved shirts with dress trousers. Ladies can wear a tailored blazer, blouse and dress pants or skirts. Keep jewelry and make-up stylish yet appropriate.
Dressing professionally for a remote job interview is more than just making a good first impression. It’s for your frame of mind. It can be challenging to have a focused, professional mindset, if you’re in pajamas. Dressing smart business casual brings out your inner professional. Once you look the part, you stand a much greater chance of feeling the part and eventually getting the part.
Tips for after the remote interview
You’ve dressed for the part, audio and settings were good and the interviewer seemed thoroughly impressed. Well done! Now the last essential step of the remote interviewing process is expressing gratitude and adequate follow up.
Send an email mentioning how grateful you are to be considered for the position and briefly re-iterate your interest in being a part of their organisation. This ideally should be sent the day after the interview.
If five business days or more has passed without any updates, you can send a follow up email. Include the job position in the subject line and the word “Follow up”. Indicate that you’re simply reaching out for an update on the job position. Let them know, any updates will be greatly appreciated and you look forward to their response. Conclude with a ‘Thank You’ and your name and contact at the end.
Keep follow-up emails to the point, sincere and free of spelling or grammatical errors.
What should I do next?
- Read more about how to answer Effective Job Hunting tips
- Read more about Remote jobs
- Read about Video conference
