Not long ago, this format of an interview was more of an exception than a rule. However, today, the opportunity to communicate with potential employers online is becoming increasingly prevalent. Whether the candidate is applying for an office-based job or a remote position, the active development of information technology has made online interviews more commonplace. There isn't much difference between offline and online interview formats, except for a few nuances that are discussed on the Login Casino Work job search website. Employment experts provide recommendations on how to prepare for such meetings and how to conduct yourself if you want to secure the desired position.
Choose the right device and check the quality of your connection.
Modern technological capabilities allow for video communication through various devices and software. While Skype used to be the primary tool for this purpose, nowadays, it could be almost any available messenger. The key is to inquire with the employer in advance about the communication channel they plan to use and select appropriate equipment accordingly. It is not recommended to use a mobile phone for this purpose due to frequent connection issues, a small screen, and other reasons. It is much more practical to use a personal computer or laptop for the interview. These devices offer easier troubleshooting for audio and video-related problems.
Make sure to check the availability and quality of your internet connection. You can do a test call with a friend or family member to assess the following aspects:
- Internet stability;
- Microphone and headphones' performance;
- Video display and camera angle.
Do not ignore the last point, and avoid conducting the interview in the kitchen or bedroom. Keep in mind that if you position your monitor towards a window on a sunny day, the interviewer may have difficulty seeing you clearly. Strive for a neutral background for your video. There should be no clutter or personal items visible behind you. It's best if there are bookshelves or artwork in the background. When setting up your equipment before the interview, ensure that nothing appears in the camera's field of view that could seem strange or compromise your image.
Choose appropriate attire for the occasion.
An online interview is just as important as an in-person office interview. Therefore, it is essential to dress accordingly, but without going overboard. What does this mean? It's clear that a business suit or home pajamas are unlikely to be suitable for an online interview, whether it's for a remote or office-based job. It would be reasonable to choose a smart casual style.
However, you shouldn't neglect your appearance below the waist either. Life is full of surprises, as evidenced by numerous videos on the internet revealing such unpreparedness. Additionally, such an appearance won't give you a sense of confidence and composure.
Practice being on camera.
Not everyone feels relaxed and confident when communicating with an interviewer through video communication. Therefore, it's necessary to practice by recording a video where you talk about yourself. Watch and analyze the finished material, paying attention to aspects such as voice and diction, facial expressions while speaking. Also, check for signs of nervousness, involuntary movements that betray your anxiety. Even if the interview is conducted using a mobile phone, you should exude confidence and calmness during the interview. Look into the camera, minimize gestures, strive to appear engaged, and smile.
Find a list of frequently asked questions and rehearse your answers.
To save you from searching for a long time, the Login Casino Work job search website has analyzed various articles on this topic, spoken to HR managers, and compiled material in our blogs that will not only familiarize you with such questions but also help you prepare answers for them. Our job search and interview preparation tips will help candidates of all levels feel calm and confident. Here are some of the questions that HR managers commonly ask in interviews:
- What are your main professional skills?
- Name your strengths.
- What was the reason for leaving your previous job?
- What salary range are you expecting?
- What attracts you to our company?
- What do you hope to achieve in the next five years?
In the blog section of the Login Casino Work website, candidates can find a more detailed list of questions, as well as models of non-standard situations that it is recommended to familiarize yourself with for a successful interview.
Additionally, make sure to thoroughly study the company's website and inquire about its procedures and rules from current or past employees.
Prepare a list of questions to ask the employer.
An interview is a process where not only the employer chooses an employee, but the candidate also chooses a place of work. Therefore, you have the right to ask questions as well. Towards the end of the interview, the interviewer usually asks if you have any questions. Having such a list will only benefit the candidate as it demonstrates their preparedness and interest in the job. Whether it's an office-based or remote job interview, there are certain aspects you would like to clarify in advance.
Choose the right time for the interview.
The main challenge of conducting an interview from home is the presence of domestic disturbances. It's preferable that background noises such as a running washing machine, vacuum cleaner, or children playing are not audible during the conversation. Therefore, it's best to schedule the interview when the children are asleep or away from home. Coordinate with household members to ensure they don't distract you with loud sounds and noise during your interview.
What to do in case of unexpected situations?
Force majeure situations happen, and there's no escaping them. The key in such cases is to find a graceful solution. What usually occurs? Here are the most common force majeure scenarios during an online interview:
- Loss of connection. If this happens, it's worth calling the interviewer back and explaining why you suddenly disappeared.
- Interference from external noises. Let's say you've made arrangements with household members, and the apartment is quiet and calm. But suddenly, a neighbor decides to use a drill or someone rings the doorbell. Apologize to the interviewer, mute the microphone, and resolve the issue.
- Unexpected guests. This even includes pets or children who enter the room and appear in the camera's view. Apologize, mute the microphone, and calmly ask the "guests" to leave.
Don't get upset if force majeure situations occur. After all, we are all human, and incidents happen. It's possible that your interviewer may not even pay much attention to the incident.
What is necessary for a successful video interview?
To successfully pass a video interview, you need to put yourself in the recruiter's shoes, think about what they may pay attention to and what is important to them. The first impression of a candidate is formed after reading their resume, so make sure it's appealing and trustworthy.
Pay attention to your social media accounts. HR managers often browse candidates' profiles not only on LinkedIn but also on Facebook and Instagram to learn more about them. Ensure that these profiles don't contain compromising material.
Remember, any interview, even an unsuccessful one, is a valuable experience that will be useful in the future. Set yourself up for success, but in case of failure, remain polite with the interviewer. You may have to deal with them again in the future, so leave a good impression.
Read also: Top 10 rules for a successful job interview