How to ace a remote job interview

Getting invited for a remote job interview means you’re one step closer to your digital nomad dream life. With our guide on how to ace a remote job interview, you’ll be packing your bags in no time. Ready to smash that interview and go remote? Stick around and learn how.

What can you expect from the remote job interview process? It’s not too different from the in-person job interview. You’ll replace the handshake with an awkward “can you hear me and see me” video call intro. After that, the remote job interview process will be pretty much the same. The job recruiter will ask you to introduce yourself in a few words and get on with questions.

Now you know what to expect from the remote job interview process. Let’s dive into our top 7 remote job interview tips to find out how to get your cocktail-on-the-beach type of fairytale.

Top 7 remote job interview tips

For an in-person interview, you’d practice your handshake, print out your resume, double-check the address of the office building, or get a few minutes in earlier. All above will lead to a good first impression. Similarly, there are a few things to watch out for in a remote job interview. Use our remote job interview tips below to get it right the first time.

1. Prepare remote video interview cheat sheet

Remember cheat sheets on the school exams? Even though school days are behind you, you might need some of those skills back. Also, if you are somebody who gets nervous while talking, especially if English isn’t your first language, this one is for you.

One of the advantages of video interviews is that the interviewer can’t see your desk. You’ll be able to prepare a remote video interview cheat sheet. Write down questions related to your industry, complicated English words, and anything else you find useful.‍

Remember, a remote video interview cheat sheet is only assistance. To ace a remote job interview, you’ll need to have the required skill set.‍

2. Choose the right environment

Choose a quiet, well-lit space with minimal distractions. If possible, stay in the comfort of your home in a familiar setting. It’ll be less stressful. All the focus during the remote video interview should be on the talking. Ensure the background is professional and uncluttered. Keep it clean and simple to bring all the attention to the interview.

3. Make sure your technology is working and prepare for technical issues

Even though technology malfunctions happen all the time, try to avoid them. They can turn into a funny story someday, but not every job recruiter will take it lightly. When your camera, mic, or internet connection doesn’t work, you look unprepared. Moreover, if your technology doesn’t work now, how will it work in your new remote job? Technology is the key to the digital nomad life.

The remote job interview is stressful enough on its own. Avoid the stress by double (or triple) checking the video call platform the interview will take place on. Set some time apart 30 minutes before the interview. See if you need to update or install anything. Don’t forget to allow the platform to use your camera and mic. Most importantly, use the headphones.

Even with a preparation, things don't go as planned. Have a backup plan in case of technical glitches. Charge the old laptop or your phone and have it by your side. Install the video conferencing platform in advance on the backup device. Don’t forget to keep the interviewer's contact information handy in case you need to reconnect.

4. Show off that you can work independently

While in regular 9 to 5 office jobs it’s important to be a team player, in a remote setting, it’s quite the opposite. Considering each employee, contractor, or freelancer works in another location, potentially even a different time zone, companies need independent professionals. In a remote setting, there won’t be colleagues passing by your desk that you can ask questions.

This doesn’t mean you should be unfriendly or not ask for help when needed. It just means you’ll have less access to your colleagues which translates into a more independent work environment. If you want to ace a remote job interview, make sure to highlight your ability to work independently.

5. Share why you want to go remote

Everyone wants to work with somebody they can relate to. The company's recruiter, human resources professional, or other team members probably work remotely too. At some point, you'll get asked why you want to go remote. Share your reasons. Don't lie or give a generic response. Tell them your story just as it is.

6. Practise non-verbal cues

Even though what you say in the interview is crucial, your non-verbal cues also matter. Through a blend of verbal and non-verbal communication, you’ll ace your remote job interview. Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera rather than the screen. Sit up straight, smile, and use hand gestures naturally. Speak clearly, avoid unnecessary words, and maintain a steady pace.

7. Follow up

Finally, send a thank-you email after the interview. Confirm your continued interest in the position and express gratitude for the opportunity. Keep the email short and concise, avoiding asking questions or appearing overly eager to secure the job.

Don’t know what to wear for remote job interview?

There's only one last thing left. We covered how the job interview process works and remote job interview tips. Let’s choose your outfit.

What to wear for a remote job interview mostly depends on the desired job position and the company. Digital nomads and professionals who work remotely often get stereotyped. There’s an idea everyone works in their pajamas, sweatshirt, and everything is laid back. While that can be true for some job roles, it’s not a rule. Especially when it comes to the remote job interview.

In most cases, you won’t wear a suit and tie. However, if you’re applying for a management position of any kind, make sure to wear a clean and ironed professional shirt. The same goes for any sales, finance, or engineering positions. What you wear on the bottom matters only if you plan to stand up.

Are you applying for a creative remote job role in marketing or design? Good news is that you’ll be able to make it more colorful. In the creative industries, rules can be bent a little bit.

Generally, pick the colours that look good on camera. Avoid clothes with complicated patterns or overly bright colours. They'll draw attention away from what you are saying

Looking for more advice on how to ace a remote job interview?

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