- Types Of Interviews
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As remote work continues to dominate the professional landscape, online interviews have become a standard practice for job seekers and employers alike. With the flexibility to conduct interviews from anywhere, it’s essential to understand the nuances of this format, even if you are an experienced interviewee. In this article, we’ll guide you through the crucial steps to prepare for and ace your online interview.
Key Takeaways:
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Before your online interview, test your technology and familiarize yourself with the platform you’ll be using.
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Ensure your background is professional and well-lit to create a positive impression.
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Inform anyone else in your home about your interview schedule to minimize distractions.
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Prepare for common interview questions and develop thoughtful inquiries for the interviewer, just as you would for an in-person interview.
What is an Online Interview?
Online interviews are job interviews conducted via video calls, enabling face-to-face interactions regardless of location. This format has become increasingly preferred over traditional phone interviews, as it allows for visual communication that enhances understanding through body language and facial expressions.
Recruiters frequently utilize online interviews as initial screenings to assess candidates before inviting them for in-person meetings. However, it has become commonplace for companies to conduct the entire interview process online. As a result, preparation for both the interview and the unique aspects of online discussions is vital.
How to Prepare for an Online Interview
While the core principles of interview preparation remain unchanged, additional steps can enhance your readiness for an online setting.
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Check the time zone. When scheduling your interview, confirm the time zone to avoid any confusion that could derail your plans.
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Test your technology. Familiarize yourself with the interview platform by testing it beforehand. This ensures you won’t struggle with technical issues during the interview.
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Find a good space. Minimize interruptions by choosing a quiet area for your interview. Ensure your background is tidy and professional to create a good impression.
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Set up your lighting. Proper lighting is crucial for video calls. Position yourself to face natural light or use a lamp to illuminate your face without harsh shadows.
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Have a practice interview. Conduct a mock interview with someone to get feedback on your setup and to practice using the platform.
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Use your headphones. Wearing headphones can improve audio quality and help you concentrate during the interview.
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Make a list of questions to ask them. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer; saying “no” to this common prompt is not an option.
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Make a cheat sheet. Use notes discreetly during the interview, as the interviewers won’t see everything on your desk. A list of key points can be beneficial.
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Dress professionally. While only your upper half may be visible, ensure your entire outfit is interview-ready to avoid any embarrassing moments.
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Look at the camera. Making “eye contact” with the camera can create a more engaging experience for the interviewer.
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Lighten your internet’s load. For a smoother connection, disconnect other devices from your network during the interview.
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Be prepared for loss of connection. Have your interviewer’s contact information ready in case of technical difficulties.
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Start early. Aim to log in a few minutes before your interview time to avoid last-minute issues.
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Don’t worry. Remember, interviewers are human too. If something goes wrong, view it as an opportunity to demonstrate your adaptability.
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Send a follow-up. After the interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours to express your gratitude for the opportunity.
Common Interview Questions
Practicing answers to common interview questions can greatly enhance your confidence. Here are some to consider:
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Tell Me About Yourself.
Keep your answer focused on your professional background and interests.
Example Answer“I have over ten years of experience in communications, specializing in strategies that connect people. I’m now seeking a new opportunity to leverage my skills in a teaching role.”
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Why did you apply for this position?
Share your enthusiasm for the role and the company, backed by your research.
Example Answer“I am passionate about web development and sustainability. Your organization’s initiatives in these areas inspired me to apply.”
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Why should we hire you?
Highlight your unique qualifications and how they will benefit the company.
Example Answer“With my sales management experience, I can effectively mentor new team members, promoting both their growth and the department’s success.”
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What is your biggest accomplishment?
Frame your response as a story that outlines your role and the outcome.
Example Answer“I proposed and implemented a new inventory tracking system that reduced errors by 5% in my last role.”
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What are your greatest weaknesses?
Choose a weakness you are actively working to improve.
Example Answer“I struggle with presentations but have been taking classes to improve my skills.”
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Tell me about a time that you failed.
Focus on what you learned and how you improved after the experience.
Example Answer“I missed a project deadline due to poor planning. I learned to set smaller milestones to ensure timely completion in future projects.”
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What motivates you? Or, when were you most satisfied in your job?
Share what drives you professionally, supported by an example.
Example Answer“I thrive on setting and achieving goals. In sales, I consistently raised my targets, which kept me excited and engaged.”
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Where else have you applied?
Be transparent but steer the conversation back to the role at hand.
Example Answer“I’ve applied to several teaching roles, but I’m particularly excited about this position due to its diverse subject matter.”
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Why are you leaving your current job?
Be brief and stay positive, linking your answer to the new opportunity.
Example Answer“I enjoyed my time there but am eager to utilize both my design and coding skills in a more dynamic environment.”
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Tell me about a time you dealt with a difficult coworker.
Share a specific story that highlights your conflict resolution skills.
Example Answer“I worked with a challenging colleague and focused on building a rapport, resulting in a more collaborative relationship.”
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Where do you see yourself in five years?
Discuss your professional aspirations and how they align with the company’s goals.
Example Answer“In five years, I aim to be an experienced copywriter who can mentor others, aligning with your company’s mentorship culture.”
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What makes you unique?
Highlight what differentiates you from other candidates with concrete examples.
Example Answer“Clients often mention my attentiveness and care in our interactions, along with my award-winning design skills.”
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How would your last boss describe you?
Provide an honest assessment of how you are viewed by others professionally.
Example Answer“My last boss would likely describe me as reliable and a team player who connects well with clients.”
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What is your ideal salary?
Base your answer on research and express willingness to negotiate.
Example Answer“The average salary for my experience level in Connecticut is between $35,000 and $40,000, but I’m open to negotiation.”
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What do you like to do during your free time?
Share genuine interests that reflect your personality while remaining professional.
Example Answer“I enjoy hiking and biking, as they help me unwind while offering personal challenges.”
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How do you manage your workload?
Detail your organizational strategies to showcase your time management skills.
Example Answer“I maintain a prioritized to-do list and use a color-coded calendar to manage my tasks effectively.”
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When can you start?
Provide a straightforward answer, indicating your flexibility if applicable.
Example Answer“I can start the following Monday after moving to the city next weekend, and I’m flexible beyond that.”
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If you were an animal, what would you be?
This question offers insight into your personality; respond thoughtfully while keeping it light.
Example Answer“I’d be an elephant—social and responsible. How about you?”
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Is there anything else you’d like us to know?
Use this opportunity to share any relevant qualifications or personal anecdotes.
Example Answer“I’m passionate about self-learning and often take the initiative to explore new skills, as demonstrated in my last role.”
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Do you have any questions for me?
Prepare thoughtful questions to express your interest in the role and the company.
Example Answer“I’d love to know more about the interdepartmental projects you mentioned earlier. Can you elaborate on that?”
What to Ask in an Online Interview
At the end of your interview, consider asking the following questions:
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What do you enjoy most about working here?
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Do you have any concerns about my qualifications?
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What is the staff turnover rate, and how long did the previous person in this role stay?
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What does a typical day entail for someone in this position?
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What challenges do you foresee for this role?
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What have previous employees done to excel in this position?
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What does success look like for someone in this role?
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What professional development opportunities do you offer?
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Is there anything we haven’t discussed that’s important for me to know about working here?
What Not to Ask in an Online Interview
Avoid these questions during your initial interview, as they may convey a lack of interest or preparation:
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What does this job entail?
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What does your company do?
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How fast can I get promoted?
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When can I take my vacation?
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How often do I need to be in the office?
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Is there a dress code?
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What benefits do you offer?
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Do I get an employee discount?
- Types Of Interviews
Author
Abby is a writer who is passionate about the power of story. Whether it’s communicating complicated topics in a clear way or helping readers connect with another person or place from the comfort of their couch. Abby attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she earned a degree in writing with concentrations in journalism and business.
