How to Prepare for an Executive Remote Interview

For Candidates

video interviewing

Remote interviews have become a popular tool for many of our client companies in the hiring process. Due to the popularity of remote interviews, jobseekers must learn how to put their best foot forward in a virtual environment. While the pandemic created a major shift in the workforce, some executive candidates are uncomfortable with the technology and unsure of how to make a good digital impression. Similar to an in-person interview, remote interviews require preparation and practice. 

We compiled a list of tips we give our candidates before an upcoming video interview. 

 

Appearance

  • Look professional from head to toe. Don’t assume that a potential employer will not see what you’re wearing below your waist—for example, you may be asked to retrieve a document in another room. 
  • Patterns and bright colors often look strange on video, so stick with solid-colored outfits with dark or neutral tones. 
  • Check beforehand that room lighting is flattering and even. 
  • Adjust the camera so that you are in the middle of the screen. Remember that body language is essential for any interview, so make sure that your shoulders and hands are visible. However, an overly zoomed out perspective may show too much of your environment. 
  • During the interview, look into the camera to give the impression of eye contact. Avoid fixating on your own image, which will look odd from the interviewer’s perspective. 
  • Inevitably, a video interview will communicate less of your overall personality than an in-person interview. Smiling enthusiastically throughout the interview will leave the best impression.

Questions

  • You should prepare just as thoroughly for a video interview as for an in-person interview. In fact, you may be under more scrutiny during remote interviews because employers often record them for future reference. 
  • Though you may decide to have notecards or your resume nearby, do not read straight from them. Memorize any important dates and figures beforehand. 

Technology

  • Familiarize yourself with the software before your interview. Try practicing the video chatting software with a friend. 
  • The first step in using most Zoom or other video software will be downloading the application and creating a username. Make sure that your username is professional—a variation on your full name will do. 
  • Consider using a headset to avoid playback and ensure excellent sound quality for you and your interviewer. 
  • Utilize the software’s background effects if your surroundings appear unprofessional. This function can automatically blur or replace your background so you can remain the center of attention. 
  • You may want to use an Ethernet cable instead of a wireless connection to ensure a good internet speed—a slow connection can ruin a video interview. If you don’t have an Ethernet cable, make sure your internet is stable beforehand. Ask members in your household to limit their internet usage during the interview if possible. 

 

Environment

  • Clean up the space around your computer, and anything else in plain sight. If possible, place your computer’s web camera in an area where you have a blank, white wall behind you. 
  • To prevent interruption, alert everyone you live with that you will have an interview. Silence notifications on your phone and computer so that an email or chat alert does not cause any distractions. 
  • Make sure your environment is quiet — close windows to protect from outside noises such as dogs or cars. Any pets should also be kept in another room. 

Bristol Associates, Inc. is an executive search firm with over 50 years of excellence in recruiting nationwide. Bristol specializes in recruiting for the Casino Gaming; Hotels and Resorts; Travel, Tourism, and Attractions; Facilities and Concessions; Food and Beverage Manufacturing; Restaurant; Hospital and Healthcare; and Nonprofit industries.

If you’re interested in working with Bristol Associates, click here if you’re an employer or here if you’re a candidate.

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