Remote work, work from home (WFH), hybrid work schedules, digital nomads, and work from anywhere (WFA) – these buzzwords are all the rage, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic forced many offices to close their physical locations.
Remote work has a lot of advantages. It offers more flexibility (and zero commutes) to employees. Employers, too, benefit from having less overhead acquiring and maintaining office spaces.
Additionally, they can scout employees from a much larger pool. Geography and commuting times are no longer a barrier.
How, though, do you get a job at a company located hundreds or even thousands of miles away? What is the interview process like?
As with any job, you’ll have to apply or be recruited in order to get an interview. You can create a free resume without paying using online resume builders.
When you’ve scheduled your interview, consider the following tips for remote interview success.
How Do Remote Interviews Work?
If you’re looking for a job that will allow you to work from home, odds are you won’t be interviewing in person.
There are several ways in which your future employer might approach your remote job interview.
Types of Remote Interviews
Depending on the type of job and other circumstances, your hiring manager might use one of the following:
Interviews by Email or Phone
If you’re part of the gig economy (for example, a freelancer or an independent contractor), your employer or client may feel comfortable simply speaking with you via email or by phone.
This is especially the case if the following are true:
- You’re being hired for a gig, a project, or otherwise on a short-term basis.
- You have a substantial portfolio or LinkedIn profile that can be viewed online.
- You have an established business with good reviews from past clients.
- You’ve been recommended by a former client or employer.
Interviews Via Video Conferencing
The use of video conferencing platforms such as Zoom or BlueJeans has become the cornerstone of remote interviews.
It allows the interview to take place in much the same way as a traditional interview – the manager and the candidate sit facing one another, chat, and can evaluate body language.
In-Person Interviews
If you live within one to two hours’ drive of the business location, the hiring manager will likely want to meet you in person for an interview.
Though uncommon, you may be asked to visit the business location in person even if it is very far away. In this case, the company should pay for your travel expenses and accommodations.
Traveling great distances for in-person interviews is very uncommon. Typically, only very large companies hiring upper-level management or employees with highly specialized skill sets will do so.
Some companies like to onboard employees at the company headquarters and promote team-building exercises.
How to Ace Your Remote Interview
The following steps will help you make a good impression at your interview.
1. Know the Tech
Likely, you’re very familiar with the use of a laptop and webcam. If not, take the time to learn. The hiring manager will likely send you the conference link ahead of time.
Make sure you’ve downloaded the correct software or apps. Practice using it so you can be confident on the day of your interview.
2. Dress the Part
Dress like you would for an in-person interview. Avoid overly casual attire like t-shirts and jeans. Even if you work in pajamas, don’t wear them to your interview!
3. Prepare Your Background
Choose a location where you can be seated with your computer on a table in front of you. Don’t hold a laptop on your lap. Your head and upper torso should be centered in the image.
Take a look at the background of the shot. Clear away any clutter or overly personal items. A plain wall is ideal. A wall with a few decorations or a well-arranged room is also suitable.
You can use a virtual background if necessary but practice first so you know that your face won’t fade into the background.
Minimize potential distractions. Ask family members not to enter the room during your interview, and put pets in another room or kennel. Use noise-canceling software or headphones.
Also, note your lighting. Use external lighting such as a selfie ring light if the room is dark. Don’t sit directly in front of a lamp or window to avoid strong shadows or backlighting.
4. Remain Calm
Take a deep breath. Take notes. Ask questions. And don’t forget to send your interviewer a thank-you note after the interview is over.
In this way, you’ll build rapport and increase your chances of landing the job.
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