Landing an interview is always exciting. But how you need to approach the meeting may vary depending on the kind of interview you’ll have. There are some differences between remote and on-site interviews. By learning what they are, you can adjust your approach to meet the demands of the situation.
If you want to make sure that you’re ready to nail any kind of interview, here’s what you need to know.
The Difference Between Remote and On-Site Interviews
In most cases, the main difference between remote and on-site interviews is the involvement of technology. You’ll need to make use of video conferencing software, a webcam, a microphone, and earbuds or speakers when meeting online, something that isn’t the case with on-site interviews.
As a result, for your remote interview, you’ll need to prepare for the meeting a bit differently. Along with downloading any connection software, you should also test it to make sure you’re comfortable with the program and to ensure that your audio and video equipment works properly.
It’s also wise to audit what appears in your video, including your background. That way, you can remove items you don’t want the hiring manager to see.
Checking your lighting is smart, as well as previewing your interview outfit on camera. Certain clothing colors or patterns might not look great on screen. Lighting issues could make your space too bright or dark, cause glare, or create unwelcomed shadows.
Finally, technology may impact how you want to speak during the interview. While most video conferencing supports near real-time communication, there is actually a small delay, so you may need to pause a bit to ensure the interviewer is done speaking. Additionally, slowing your cadence and speaking clearly is a must, particularly if there may be technical issues that harm the audio quality.
How to Nail Your Remote or On-Site Interview
Generally, much of the advice about excelling during an interview applies to both remote and on-site meetings. As always, preparation is the key to success. Along with reviewing the job description and researching the company, you want to prepare answers to common job interview questions. That way, you can practice relevant responses, making you more compelling.
Additionally, your interview attire should be professional and appropriate regardless of how you interview. While the idea of interviewing in pajama pants might seem like a great option for remote interviews, it’s never a good idea. There’s always a chance you’ll need to stand up or otherwise put your legs in the frame. As a result, use the in-person interview outfit approach even if you’re meeting online.
In the end, interviewing is largely the same regardless of whether you’re meeting on-site or online. If you’d like to learn more about how you can shine during your next interview, the team at The Advance Group can help. Contact us to speak with one of our recruiters today and see how our expertise can benefit you.
