You can’t think that a remote job interview is simpler and less formal than a stationary interview. This is not true, as is the thesis that during a remote conversation it is easier to hide the lack of preparation or avoid difficult or unfavorable questions. Paradoxically, due to the limitation of external stimuli, the camera’s eye directs attention to issues that would be harder to catch in the case of traditional conversation.
➡️ Take care of the surroundings – when preparing for a remote interview, you should not forget about the proper preparation of the environment in which you will conduct the interview with the recruiter. It is important that this is a room that allows you to isolate yourself from others, where you can close the door and talk in solitude and peace. This will minimize noise and other distractions that could disrupt the interview and cause additional stress. An important issue is also the setting of the computer and the area that the camera wil record. Of course, the most important point is you and you should be in the center of the frame, but don’t forget about the space just behind you. It is good to choose a place where will be empty space behind your back – preferably a light wall. If this is not possible, it is worth taking care of such a frame, which includes as few elements as possible, potentially distracting the interlocutor’s attention, i.e. photos, images, etc.
➡️ Dress appropriately – appropriate clothing is an important aspect of any interview. A remote interview, e.g. via Skype, is still a job interview, so it is worth taking care of a professional appearance. Don’t assume that worse image quality will cover up too losse clothing or a funny inscription on a T-shirt. Another important issue is the holistic view of clothing. Sometimes it may seem that since you will be visible only from the waist up in the frame, only this part of the outfit must be formal. However this kind of thinking can be very unreliable, especially in unforeseen moments, when you have to get up from the chair and corect the falling camera, move the speaker or close the blind. For a face-to-face interview organized at the company’s headquarters, no one would rather go dressed in a shirt with a tie and tracksuits bottoms. Therefore, you should not dress like this for a Skype interview.
➡️ Pay attention to the technical aspects – usually an interbview is stressful for candidates, especially when they are very interested in a given offer and want to present themselves in the best possible way. If the recruitment process is conducted remotely, possible technical problems are an additional source of stress. During a video interview, we are somehow addicted to devices that do not alway work flawlessly. However there are some technical aspects that you should pay attention to before the conversation. Checking if the webcam is working and recording the image correctly is the first step you nedd to take. Half an hour before the schelduled time of the meeting, turn on the computer and check the image settings. It is equally important to check that the microphone you will be using is recording good quality sound.
Of course, even the most predictable and accurate person will not be able to prepare for all random situations, such as a sudden lack of electricity in the apartment or a failure of the Internet network. You should be aware that such things happen and are beyond of your control. If you encounter a similar situation on the day of the interview, you should inform the recruiter as soon as possible – directly and honestly – that the interview cannot take place at this particular moment. Remember that there is always a person on the other side who is aware that such accidents happen. You can always ask for a different date for the interview and it will not be considered incompetence. On the contrary, an immediate response and open communication will confirm your commitment and willingness to continue participating in the process.
