Strong Female Leaders

By Eroh K | Strong Female Leaders
Reading Time: Approx. 7 minutes
Target Audience: Professionals, Professional Women, Job Seekers

How to Ace Your Interview Remotely?

Yes. Companies are hiring. Even in the global pandemic, companies are hiring. They are just more selective about who they hire.

What does this mean to you? It means that you must find ways to stand out. Whether it's changing your approach, being open to different positions, or sharpening up your skills, you must find ways to set yourself apart. Here's how to get ahead.

Remote Job Interview Tips

1. Network diligently.

Nabbing a job in the current climate will be more about who you know. For more senior positions, networking is even more important. Most hiring managers have stacks of resumes to sift through, and will likely notice familiar names. When you start to network heavily, your posts on social media or conversations with peers regarding job search can bring yourself closer to the people with hiring rights.

Reaching out directly to former colleagues also helps. An invitation on LinkedIn or an email explaining your situation are great ways to start. Then, seek their advice on how to search for the next position. People in general want to help others. At the minimum, they will offer solid tips. If you are lucky, they will open doors to new opportunities.

2. Prepare fully.

A remote interview is still an interview. It's formal, engaging, and puts you under pressure. All of the "tribal" rules of preparation apply, with the following additions:

1) Prepare for technical challenges. Prior to the interview, familiarize yourself with the video conferencing platform that you will use. Make sure that you know how to screen share, chat, mute yourself, and so forth. Test out the link, and make sure you have a plan B if the technology becomes a challenge. Interviewers nowadays are prepared for technology to fail. Still, they would like to see you stay cool under pressure, and handle issues that are out of your control with grace and confidence.

2) Go for the extra credit. While you know to do your homework and research the company that you will interview with, a little extra effort will go a long way. Questions such as "how does the company respond to the COVID-19 crisis" shows that you are on top of current affairs, and are genuinely interested in the organization.

3) Look professional. Even though remote interviews happen in casual settings, it is still an interview. Dress the part, go somewhere quiet, and choose a less distracting background. Lastly, don't forget your posture. Sitting up straight or even standing during the interview projects confidence and professionalism.

4) Rehearse again and again. Sure, you've rehearsed plenty for common interview questions such as "tell me about yourself" and "why do you want to work for us." Now, you must rehearse the same answers in a home-based and computerized setting. Make sure that you look and sound professionally through the screen. You might consider practicing with a friend or family member, and ask them for areas of improvement.

3. Convey positive emotions.

The computer screen suppresses human emotions. During a remote interview, you want to slightly exaggerate your feelings. Not all of them though. Focus on the positive ones such as excitement, eagerness, and warmth. Then, match your emotions with positive body language such as intentional uses of hand gestures, happy facial expressions, and expansive stances. All of the small, indirect accents add up in a big way to set yourself apart from others.

Parting thoughts.

Job search is an arduous process. It's even harder in a remote setting. However, if there is a will, there is a way. Keep at it and do your best. If you feel discouraged, remember this: the world will return to normal, and the economy will improve.