Remote Interviews | How to Create a Great First Impression

Learn how to master remote interviews for career success!

How to Guarantee Success in Remote Interviews

In remote interviews, you’re up against other candidates who may be more qualified than you on paper. But there are ways to stand out and show you’re the best person for the job.

How to Make a Great First Impression in Remote Interviews

1. First, dress to impress. Even though the interviewer will only see you from the waist up, dressing professionally from head to toe will help you feel more confident and present.
2. Second, create a distraction-free space. Find a quiet spot with good lighting and a stable internet connection. This will prevent any technical issues from getting in the way.
3. Finally, remember eye contact is just as important in a video call as in person. Looking into the camera will show you’re present in the conversation.

Follow these tips and you’ll be ready to go for remote job interviews.

What’s the difference between a remote interview and an in-person interview?

A remote interview is an interview conducted via technology, usually over video conferencing platforms like Skype or Zoom.

This type of interview has become more common in recent years as more companies go remote. While a remote job interview may seem like an in-person interview, there are some key differences.

The most obvious difference is you won’t be meeting your interviewer in person. This can make it harder to build rapport and make a great first impression.

Also, you’ll need to be more aware of your body language and nonverbal cues, as these can be misread more easily on a video call.

Finally, you won’t be able to read the interviewer’s reaction to your answers so you can’t adjust on the fly.

Despite these challenges, remote interviews can be a way to get a job outside your local area. With some prep, you can be ready.

Tech prep to avoid glitches

To make sure your interviewee can hear you clearly, you need to test your tech in advance.

If you’re using a laptop, make sure it’s plugged into the wall and the battery is fully charged.

Position it so the microphone and camera are at eye level.

If you’re using a desktop computer, check the microphone and camera are plugged in.

For both laptops and desktops, use headphones to avoid feedback from the speakers.

Finally, test the video call feature on your chosen platform.

Taking a few minutes to prep everything means that you can avoid any technical mishaps during your remote interview.

Minimize distractions in remote interviews

When you’re preparing for a remote interview, you must create a professional environment.

That means removing distractions that will get in the way of your focus.

First, find a quiet space where you won’t be interrupted. Turn off your phone and any other devices that will make noise or vibrate.

If you have pets, make arrangements for someone to take them during the interview.

You must also control the lighting in the room. Position yourself so there’s no glare on your computer screen and the light source isn’t behind you.

Do these things and you can focus on the interview and make a great impression.

Body language or expressions

Remote interviews can be a way to connect with potential employers. But remember, body language and expressions still matter.

Even though your interviewer can’t see you in person, they can still pick up on vocal and postural cues.

So, what can you do to appear confident and professional?

1. First, sit up straight and don’t fidget. This will help you project energy and enthusiasm.
2. Second, look at the camera, not yourself on the screen. This will help you connect with your interviewer more.
3. Finally, pay attention to your tone. Sounding bored or disinterested will give your interviewer the wrong impression.

If you follow these tips, you’ll make a great impression in your next remote interview.

How do you stand out in remote interviews?

In a remote interview, you need to find ways to stand out from the other applicants. Here are three:

1. Focus on your nonverbal communication

Even though you’re not in the same room as the interviewer, remember your body language still matters.
Sit up straight and look at the camera to appear confident and engaged.

2. Be prepared to talk about your tech experience

Many remote interviews are done over video conferencing platforms like Zoom or Skype.
Be ready to talk about any experience you have with these or other remote working platforms and how comfortable you are using them.

3. Highlight your soft skills

Remote work can be lonely, so you must show you’re a team player who’s comfortable communicating online.
Talk about any previous remote work experience and how you stay in touch with your colleagues.

Good luck!