With many companies still allowing employees to work from home, it’s not surprising that job interviews would occur online. Indeed, online interviews were the method of choice – or necessity – during lockdown for companies that were hiring.

Even in ordinary times, an online interview can save employers time and money as they don’t have to meet candidates in person or pay for a job fair. Job seekers benefit, too, as online meetings save on travel time and can be less stressful than a face-to-face interview.

For candidates, although the interview will take place in your home, you’ll want to be well-prepared and know what to expect. This will help you think on your feet and do better during the interview.

For starters, make sure your computer and devices are working properly. Most laptops and tablets come with a built-in webcam, so ensure it is in good working order. If you do not have a laptop, you should be able to use your smartphone.

The interviewer will often use popular video conferencing software like Zoom or Google Meet. Some employers prefer in-depth live interviews, while others might send you a list of questions and ask you to record yourself answering them.

Remember that online interviews are just as important as in-person ones. Your interview could get you to the next round or even a job offer.

Preparing for the interview

• Download the software ahead of time so you’ll have the opportunity to get used to it. If you are already a regular user, make sure you have the latest update.
• Use your real name or a variation of it as it appears on your resume, but keep it professional.
• Dress well even if you are sitting down. Wear nice pants and shoes, as you never know when you might have to stand. Dressing the part will also help you get your head in the game.
• Clear your workspace and any clutter behind you so it doesn’t show up on the screen. You don’t want your interviewer to be distracted by visual noise in the room or assume your disorganised space is a sign of how you would perform as a worker. Whenever possible, choose a space with a nice background or even a simple wall.
• Make sure you are in a quiet room where you will not be disturbed by other people or pets.
• Turn off your ringer, any alarms, and electronics that are likely to interrupt. Let roommates and family know when you’ll be interviewing so they keep quiet and handle anything that comes up, such as an unexpected doorbell.
• Have a paper and pen ready so you are not scrambling for them later.
• Have a copy of your resume on hand in case you need to refer to dates, job titles or numbers.

Tips for acing the interview

• Practise using your webcam and equipment before the interview, so you are sure everything is in working order and you’re comfortable speaking on camera. In particular, work on “making eye contact” with the interviewer, as newbies tend to stare at the part of the screen with their own image rather than looking into the camera, which might make them look disengaged.
• Smile and focus as much as possible, and try to behave as if you’re in a regular, in-person interview.
• Speak slowly and clearly.
• Listen attentively and engage with your interviewer. Don’t just wait for your turn to speak.
• During a self-recorded interview, even though you are not speaking directly to a person, be sure to smile and maintain friendly “eye contact” via the camera.
• It’s easy to rush and come across as nervous and garbled when you’re doing an interview. Take deep breaths. If it seems like you’re speaking too slowly, you’re probably doing it right.

This article first appeared in jobstore.com.

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