Donning business formal clothing, printing your resume ahead of time and firmly shaking your interviewer's hand were once essentials to nailing the interview process. But with remote options rising in popularity, the interviewing landscape has changed dramatically.
If you’re in the midst of job-hunting now, chances are you will likely participate in a remote interview at some point in the process. In 2021, Indeed found that 82 percent of surveyed employers utilized virtual interviews, and 93 percent of them planned to continue doing so.
While it can sometimes feel awkward or cumbersome chatting over digital platforms, particularly when your Wi-Fi isn’t cooperating, remote interviews open up a world of opportunities for employers and candidates alike.
In the Indeed survey, employers reported multiple benefits of virtual interviews, such as speedier hiring, more easily manageable processes and the ability to leverage online assessment tools. Candidates, meanwhile, shared that they were usually less stressed when interviewing from the comfort of their homes. Plus, remote interviews remove geographical barriers, empowering companies to recruit top talent globally and enabling candidates to apply from anywhere.
Many of the tried-and-true tips remain relevant, such as “be yourself,” but there is an added complexity to interviewing through Zoom, Google Meet and similar platforms. Built In New York connected with a recruiter from Opto Investments to share strategies for eager job seekers hoping to make a standout first impression through a digital screen.
Opto Investments connects financial advisors to tools and resources for alternative investments.
What should a candidate do to prepare for the remote hiring process?
Be flexible and available. When communicating your remote interview availability, it’s best to provide as many time slots as you can. This helps recruiters schedule efficiently and, in many situations, coordinate across different time zones.
In video interviews, be prepared to be on camera and present for the duration of the interview. In some cases, you may need to share your screen or present material. Of course, your recruiter will let you know with plenty of notice if that is necessary.
Do your research prior to your interview. Research the company and your interviewers, and know why you are excited to join the team.
What is the most important thing a candidate should do during a remote interview?
Whether it is a phone or video interview, engagement is extremely important. We know that everyone's work-from-home situation is different, but minimizing distractions during the interview ensures that both the interviewer and the candidate remain actively invested in the conversation. This means silencing your devices, making household members aware of your interview and finding a quiet space.
Whether it is a phone or video interview, engagement is extremely important.”
For video interviews, be on screen and dress professionally. Avoid reading from a script or googling answers during the interview. There are no trick questions here; we are excited to get to know the real you, so focus on just being yourself.
What other advice do you have for candidates looking for remote work?
Communication is key, especially in a remote work environment. During the interview process, don’t be afraid to over-communicate and bring any questions you have to the interview, no matter how big or small. If you have questions prior to the interview or aren’t sure what to prepare, don’t be shy about reaching out to our talent team; we are here to help.
