Online job interviews are becoming more and more common these days, as they offer recruiters and candidates considerable time-saving benefits, not least by eliminating the need to travel. All you need is a computer or a telephone, right?
Well, if you want to have the most possible success, there are also some other things you need to consider and take care of. Here are a few of them... Let's get started! 😊
1. Technical Know-How
This is the foundation of all. There are several small technological details you need to take care of before you start your online interview, so that it can take place in perfect conditions.
- Test the sound of your microphone. It can be very difficult to understand someone when there is interference, clipping or poor sound quality. If the sound from your computer microphone isn't good enough, opt for a headset or earphones.
- Remember to check your Internet connection. There's nothing more annoying than a conversation that gets cut off every few seconds. To be sure that your connection will hold during the interview, remember to disconnect any unnecessary devices. If that's not enough, connect your computer directly to your Internet box using an Ethernet cable.
- Make sure you have enough battery before the interview, plug in your charger or have your charger close at hand. Can you imagine your recruiter's face if, at some point, they find themselves facing a black screen? It won't give them a very professional impression of you...
- Get a high-quality camera. Another important aspect is that people should be able to see you properly, not in pixels. Don't add fancy filters, and favor a natural look.
Our advice: If the interview has been scheduled over Skype, for example, try simulating or arranging a video call with someone close to you to test the various points mentioned above.
2. The surroundings
Once you've taken care of all these details, it's now time to take care of your surroundings so that you can optimize how you use the space you have. Making these adjustments will keep your mind occupied before the interview, so you don't spend the last few moments before it stressing out.
- Take care of the background and tidy up the room you're in. Avoid leaving the laundry pile or embarrassing photos in the frame. The fewer distracting elements there are behind you, the more focused your conversation partner will be on what you're saying (and not on what he or she sees).
- Adapt the lighting. Choose a well-lit room, not a dark one - there's no need to go all Dracula on your potential new employer! Avoid backlighting. Don't hesitate to relocate lamps and open/close shutters to optimize the light in the room.
- Choose a quiet location. If there are other people living with you, let them know in advance about the meeting and how important it is not to be disturbed. It's best not to let a spouse in pyjamas, a little blonde who is hungry or a cat who wants a cuddle intrude on the recruiter's field of vision.
- Adjust the camera frame. Remember to position the camera at eye level and at arm's length. If your camera isn't at the right height, prop up your PC with books or a cardboard box, for example. To make sure you're in focus, your eyes should be at about 2/3 of the height of the screen.
Tip: Prepare the room where you'll be doing the interview in advance, and make all the necessary adjustments so you don't have to think about these details when the time comes.
3. You
Finally, we come to the main point of this article... you! Don't overlook this last crucial point. An online job interview is still a job interview. Whether remote or face-to-face, there are certain codes to respect.
- Choose a professional attire. It's important to look your best and project a professional image. Dress and wear your hair and make-up if that is what you usually do. Prepare yourself as if you were going to a face-to-face interview - the only thing you can do is skip the perfume!
- Turn off your phone or put it on mute. It can be distracting, and even unwelcome, to be interrupted by a call or other audible notification. Again, the same as with a face-to-face interview, do your best not to be disturbed.
- Prepare for the interview. Research the company, check out their social networking pages, keep the job or internship offer in front of you and prepare your answers to the most frequently asked interview questions.
- Pay attention to your posture. Stand up straight and smile. When you smile, your voice and face will appear more friendly. Avoid looking away from the interviewer and stare at the camera, which will show your confidence.
- Keep a glass of water close-by to hydrate yourself if necessary.
Our tip: To feel at ease, wear your favourite and most comfortable socks! Your conversation partner won't hold it against you, since they won't be able to see it. 😉
Now you've got everything you need to have a successful online job interview! One last little tip: if you're a naturally anxious and nervous person, do a breathing exercise a few minutes before you start the interview, to help you feel calmer and more relaxed.
Ready to put this advice into practice? Apply now for one of the many jobs available on Moovijob.com! 👍
