Digital interviewing has become commonplace ever since the COVID-19 pandemic. These interviews are beneficial to job seekers and recruiters alike. Recruiters can find the best candidates, while job seekers know they can secure employment safely. That leads many to wonder how preparations for digital interviews differ now.

Much like preparing for a first date, there are things you should do to get ready for your first remote, digital interview. Here are several tips to help ensure you’re well prepared.

Communication style

Digital interviews involve email, conference calls, and video chats. The communication style you choose reflects who you are and how you present yourself in the job market. That means using clear, concise, and enthusiastic answers during calls and when on video. During a video conference, make sure your body language reflects that same enthusiastic tone. Remember to sit up straight, smile, and use natural hand gestures. Email communications should also show professionalism while being as clear and to the point as possible.

Equipment you’ll need

If your remote interview is over the phone, be sure you have a reliable connection and that the speaker works well. That way, your hands are free to take notes. If this is a video interview, you’ll need a computer equipped with a webcam and microphone. Make sure your computer meets the interview platform’s minimum requirements regarding sound and speed.

What your space should look like

Be sure to select a well-lit space if this is a video interview. The background should be clear of clutter and anything else that could distract those participating in the interview. Avoid areas that are noisy, and try to find ones that reflect who you are as a professional. If you don’t have a computer for a video chat, using your phone is an option. Make sure you prop it up to give the illusion of making eye contact, instead of looking down into your screen during the conversation.

What should you wear to a digital interview?

It’s best to dress like you’re attending an in-person interview. A digital interview doesn’t mean dressing unprofessionally. Instead, learn about the company’s dress code and match that style.

Getting to know the company beforehand

As with in-person interviews, you should learn as much about the company as you can beforehand. Acquiring this knowledge helps you speak more confidently during the interview. (“What do you know about the company?” is a common interview question.) Not only are your answers going to be natural, but you’ll leave the prospective employer with a stronger impression. You’ll want to show the potential employer that you know about their culture, history, and values. For example, when a potential employer hears that the person interviewing with them knows about the company’s size or their previous clients, that helps that job candidate stand out during the interview.

Make sure you have questions ready

Most interviewers ask potential candidates if they have any questions at the end of the interview. This is a common practice to see if the candidate is indeed serious about the company, and has done adequate research on the role and what it will entail.

Be sure to brainstorm a series of questions after researching the job position and the company’s background. Write these questions clearly on a notebook you can prop up next to your computer screen, or use a series of Post-it Notes on your computer monitor. Don’t be afraid to ask the tough questions that not only relate to the job position, but to the company and you personally, such as retirement, 401(k) options, access to a Flexible Spending Account (FSA) and Health Savings Account (HSA), or banking with an industry credit union.

What to do after an interview

When the interview concludes, show your appreciation for the opportunity just as you would during an in-person meeting. That also means following up with the interviewer with a post-interview, thank-you note within 24 hours of your interview. (Sending thank-you notes via email is now commonplace, especially as many companies have shifted to a remote work model.)

Your thank-you note should reinforce your interest in the job and sum up why you’re the ideal candidate for this role. Make this note a bit more personal by adding details from conversations during the interview.

Plan now for your next digital interview

We’re living in a whole new age, and that means staying ahead of the game regarding employment. If you’re looking for a new job, prepare for your first digital interview now. That means following the above tips to be better prepared for the opportunities ahead.

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2022-144749 Exp. 10/2024