5 Tips for a Successful Work From Home Job Interview
You created a strong resume and a compelling cover letter. That has now paid off. You’ve been selected for a work from home interview. I know, interviewing for a new job from home is no less stressful than it is in person. Based on my own experiences and from talking with other people who have been hired after remote interviews, here are 5 tips that can help you perfect a work from home job interview.
1. Set up your space
Make sure you do the interview in a distraction-free environment, whether it’s over the phone or by video. You don’t want the noises of kids arguing or a neighbor’s lawnmower to be audible during the work from home job interview.
The background of your area should also be clear and tidy. The recruiters will not pay you any attention if your background is too cluttered. A simple virtual backdrop is an option as well (for example, office settings) instead of in front of a messy bookshelf. You can follow these tips to set up the perfect space for a virtual interview.
Light, Computer/ Laptop, Webcam, Microphone, and the Internet also contribute to your interview’s success. Light yourself from the front throughout your call. If you have a desk lamp, face it so that others can see you well. For the Internet, check the speed test before the interview to make sure it won’t break the flow of the conversation.
2. Get dressed
In a work from home job interview, you should dress the same as you would in a face-to-face interview. Doing so not only makes you appear professional and excited about the opportunity, but it will also make you feel more prepared and confident.
What you’ll be expected to wear depends on factors, for example, the company size, the industry it operates in, and the culture it promotes. For example, in contrast to a large accounting company, a small creative agency could have distinct criteria. Make sure your shoes and clothing are clean and pressed, regardless of what you decide.
3. Practice & Rehearse
For me, this is the most impactful tip – practice, practice, practice! If you’re not a strong speaker or you don’t have much interviewing experience, get a friend or family member to help you practice. They can help you with some of the questions that might be asked and prepare you for answering them.
These are some common work from home job interview questions:
- What appeals to you about working for this company?
- Why should we employ you, in your opinion?
- Have you ever done any home-based work?
- What about working remotely most appeals to you? What is your biggest worry?
- In your previous or present job, how was your day organized?
- How do you keep a remote team in contact and working together effectively?
- How can you maintain motivation and interest while working from home?
- How do you remain on top of your organization and time management while working from home?
- Do you have any questions for me?
You may write down your thoughts in a notebook or Word document with clear bullet points that emphasize the projects you wish to discuss. Remember no more than one page of notes. Or you can write your notes on 3-4 flashcards in order to less visually distract you and you don’t need to scroll through a 300-word document.
Besides, when you meet someone face-to-face, it’s simpler to pick up on crucial indications from their facial expressions, gestures, body language, or tone. They, however, are often more challenging to explore remotely. So, try to use body language in a clear, professional way. Make sure your camera is positioned such that your face is in the center of the screen as you sit up straight. And do not look at your reflection. Just look at your webcam. If you often look at yourself while you speak, turn off video mirroring.
4. Be authentic
When interviewing virtually, you have the rare opportunity to speak in a relaxing, familiar environment and show the interviewer who you are and why you’re the best person for the job. Recruiters will look for how you express yourself to understand whether you are a good fit for the company.
You may give the impression that you know exactly what the job includes and what is required of you. This improves trust and demonstrates that you’ll be a self-sufficient, dependable worker who can be relied upon in a remote position. Besides, market yourself as the most accessible and responsive candidate and show employers that you know how to stay engaged with your job.
Remember, good interviews come across like a conversation. When they ask a question, answer in a complete sentence. Establishing rapport is also important in any business relationship because it allows you to separate yourself from other candidates by building a personal connection with the interviewer. You can show genuine interest in the interviewer by asking questions, or find common interests before starting an interview.
5. Follow up
After a work from home job interview, a thank you email sent on the day of your interview, regardless of whether it’s by phone, video, or in-person, is highly recommended. According to LinkedIn Career Expert Blair Heitmann, a short, clear, and professional email asking about the timing and process for the remainder of the hiring process is an appropriate way to follow up. You can reach out to the HR representative or hiring manager you’ve been speaking with to get a list of your interviewers’ emails.
An online interview is much like any other interview. The only distinction is that you’re doing it from home. If you follow these five tips, you’ll up your game and be ready to land your next work at home opportunity! Remember to be professional, polite, and always be cordial. Good Luck to You, Moms!
