Tips for Preparing and Acing Your Remote Job Interview

As the Canadian workforce shifts into social distancing, so too has the recruitment process particularly within the government, healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical industries. The coronavirus marks a new era for interviewers and interviewees across the country.

 

With more HR managers conducting interviews via video, you’ll need to be prepared to go on camera. Sounds kind of scary, right?

It doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re a Medix College grad looking for work in a pharmacy, a CDI College grad vying for a social media position, or a Vancouver Career College Programs grad, here are seven tips for acing your remote job interview:

 

1. Test your tech

 

Test your technology and make sure both your internet connection and video conferencing program are working prior to the interview. If you studied CDI College programs like social media and web marketing, this should be easy. Alternatively, you can review the frequently asked questions section of the service you are using.

 

2. Dress for success

 

Remember that what you look like on camera sends a clear message to your interviewer. It’s important to dress appropriately, just like you would for an in-person interview. Try to avoid wearing bold patterns as they don’t show up well on video, and any jewelry that might make noise when you move.

 

3. Practice makes perfect

 

Regardless of whether you graduated from your Reeves College programs with honors or with A+s in your Medix College courses, you still need to do your homework before a job interview -- even if it’s a remote interview. Try to anticipate key interview questions and rehearse your responses. You should also prepare some of your own questions. Career Services at Reeves College can help prep you for interviews by running through questions and giving you pointers on what employers want to hear.

 

4. Be personable and outgoing

 

Make eye contact, smile, and generally try to demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role. If you just graduated from Teaching English as a Second Language at Vancouver Career College, be enthusiastic about helping others learn. Also, be aware of your posture and speak clearly so your answers are audible.

 

5. Avoid disruptions and distractions 

 

Before the job interview, you should remove all distractions, turn off mobile notifications, and ensure your surroundings are tidy. You should also let your family or roommates know you have a video interview to avoid unnecessary or awkward disruptions. 

 

6. Follow-up letter

 

Remote interviews deserve a follow-up just as much as in-person interviews do. Either way, it’s a little gesture that will help you stand out from the crowd. Career Services will help students in Medix College programs send follow-up notes to interviewers, thanking them for their time.

 

7. Choose a quiet, well-lit area

Whether you just graduated from Reeves College courses in legal administration, CDI College courses in dental assisting, or Vancouver Career College courses in web development, when it comes to remote job interviews you need to put yourself in the best light. For example, sit in front of a plain wall and face a window so the focus easily stays on you.

QUESTIONS

 Can I do a video interview on my phone?

 

While most video interviews use a webcam and video conferencing technology, smartphones are also an excellent option for live video interviews.

 

How do you answer why you want to work remotely?

 

You need to talk about the benefits of remote work for your employer. Explain that your productivity increases exponentially when you’re working in a distraction-free environment and that will be better for their bottom line.

 

How can I work remotely effectively?

 

If possible, turn a spare bedroom into an office. Otherwise, find a desk or table in a quiet area of your home that you can designate specifically for your work. It’s also a good idea to create a schedule to give your day some structure.

 

What is the most challenging aspect of working from home?

 

Isolation, burnout, and problems with technology are just a few challenges for those who work from home. It’s important to create a structured routine, that includes regular social interaction with colleagues, or at least with friends and family.