Remote Interview Tips: Ace Your Next Video Job Interview

Congratulations! You’ve got over the first hurdle and have received an invite for your first remote job interview, which will take place over a virtual call. Let’s get you prepared!

In this guide, we’ve included answers to frequently asked questions, so scroll through our remote interview tips and prepare.

Do you have a question that you do not see listed below? Get in touch, and we will answer this for you. The Remote Hive is here to help your remote career thrive, and we love helping people succeed in interviews.

Remote Interview Tips: Ace Your Next Video Interview

How do I set up my interview space?

Creating a professional interview space is crucial for making an excellent first impression. Choose a quiet room with good lighting and a neutral background.

Ensure your webcam is at eye level, and test your microphone, headphones, and speakers beforehand. Yes, you will need headphones.

Keep all necessary documents and a glass of water within arm’s reach. Consider including sticky notes on your laptop or desktop computer to remind yourself to breathe, speak slowly, and keep calm.

What technical preparations should I make?

Technical glitches can disrupt the flow of your interview. Test your internet connection, camera, headphones, and microphone at least a day before the interview. Close any unnecessary tabs or applications to ensure your computer runs smoothly. Please familiarize yourself with the interview platform Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet.

How should I dress for a remote interview?

Dress as you would for an in-person interview. Opt for professional attire, avoiding flashy patterns or colors that might distract the interviewer.

Ensure your outfit looks good on camera and doesn’t clash with your background. Make sure you are dressed head to toe to avoid embarrassing situations where you must stand up.

How early should I log in to the interview platform?

Log in at least 15 minutes early to account for any last-minute technical issues. Use this time to adjust your camera angle and lighting. Being early also shows punctuality and eagerness for the role.

What should I do if I experience technical issues during the interview?

If you encounter technical issues, stay calm. Breathe, seriously.

Quickly inform the interviewer and attempt to resolve the problem. If the issue cannot be fixed promptly, suggest rescheduling or switching to a phone interview. Always have a backup plan, like a fully charged phone.

How do I build rapport on video with the interviewer?

Building rapport in a remote setting can be challenging but is not impossible. Start by making eye contact through the camera, not the screen.

Listen actively, nod, and smile to show engagement. Small talk before or after the interview helps establish a connection.

How can I communicate my skills and experience in a remote setting?

Be concise and articulate when discussing your skills and experience. Structure your answers using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result).

Make sure to speak clearly and at a moderate pace to ensure the interviewer understands you, especially if you have an accent that the interviewer is not used to or English is not your first language.

What body language should I be aware of during a video interview?

Maintain good posture and avoid fidgeting. Use hand gestures sparingly and keep them within the camera frame. Nodding and smiling can also convey attentiveness and enthusiasm.

How do I handle interruptions that may occur during the interview?

If an unexpected interruption occurs, mute your microphone and handle the situation quickly. Apologize for the disruption and refocus on the interview. Make sure to inform household members about your interview to minimize distractions. Add a sign on the door to tell everyone.

Should I follow up after a remote interview, and if so, how?

Yes, following up is essential. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, reiterating your interest in the position and thanking the interviewer for their time.

The email shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Ensure you include any points you could have gotten across better.

How do I gauge company culture when I can’t visit the office?

During the interview, ask questions about team dynamics, remote working culture, work-life balance, and company values. You can also research the company’s social media and website for cultural insights.

What questions should I ask the interviewer about remote work?

Inquire about communication tools, remote work expectations, and how performance is measured. The responses will give you a clearer picture of what remote work will entail at the company.

How can I ensure my personality comes across well in a virtual setting?

Be yourself and let your personality shine through your answers and body language. Being genuine is vital to making a lasting impression.

How can I stand out among other candidates in a remote interview?

To stand out in a remote interview, focus on preparation and engagement. Conduct in-depth research on the company to tailor your answers to their company goals and challenges – this is powerful.

Completing research shows you’re interested in any job and the role at this company. On the technical side, ensure a smooth, glitch-free experience to demonstrate your comfort with remote work tools.

Finally, use the opportunity to ask questions at the end of the interview, as this reflects your deep understanding of the company and its industry.

How do I handle time-zone differences?

Always confirm the time zone when scheduling the interview. Use tools like time zone converters to avoid any confusion. Be flexible with your availability to accommodate different time zones.

What’s the best way to address gaps in employment?

Be honest and straightforward about any gaps. Focus on what you’ve learned during those periods and how it makes you a better candidate now.

Are there any red flags I should watch for during a remote interview?

Watch for vague answers about job responsibilities, remote work policies, or company culture. These could indicate a need for more organization or clarity within the company. There are a lot of companies offering hybrid working but advertise the vacancy as a remote job.