What are some best practices for using video conferencing tools in a remote interview?

1 Choose the right tool

Before the interview, you should confirm which video conferencing tool the employer will use and make sure you have it installed and tested on your device. Some of the most popular tools are Zoom, Skype, Google Meet, and Microsoft Teams. Each tool has its own features and settings, so familiarize yourself with them and adjust them to your preferences. For example, you can change the background, mute or unmute yourself, share your screen, or use chat functions.

2 Set up your space

Creating a professional and distraction-free environment is an important step to set up your space for the interview. Choose a quiet and well-lit room with a neutral or plain background, away from noisy areas such as cafes, parks, or busy streets. Make sure to check your internet connection and battery level before the interview. Position your camera at eye level and look directly at it to maintain eye contact and show confidence. Use a headset or earphones with a microphone to improve sound quality and reduce background noise. Lastly, dress appropriately and professionally, following the dress code of the company and industry even though you are not meeting in person.

4 Be professional and engaging

During the interview, you should be professional and engaging. It is important to follow the etiquette and norms of a video conference, such as joining the meeting a few minutes early and introducing yourself with a smile and positive tone. Pay attention to your body language and facial expressions, while speaking clearly and concisely without any filler words. Show enthusiasm and interest in the role and company by using examples and stories to illustrate your skills and achievements. At the end of the interview, thank the interviewer for their time and ask about the next steps.

5 Follow up and stay in touch

After the interview, you should follow up and stay in touch with the interviewer. You should send a thank-you email within 24 hours, expressing your appreciation and reiterating your interest and fit for the role. You can also mention something specific that you discussed or learned during the interview. If you have not heard back from the interviewer after a week or two, you can send a polite follow-up email to check on the status of your application and reaffirm your availability and interest. Remember to be patient and respectful, as the hiring process may take longer than usual.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?