Interviews can be stressful! Whether you are interviewed face-to-face or remotely, it's sometimes hard to determine if the job is right for you. We always wonder if the company being sold to us is all it seems or if it’s just too good to be true.
When it comes down to it, you’ll often have a gut feeling based on your first impression. However, it’s a lot harder to get a proper feel of the company when interviewing remotely, as you won’t have that opportunity to properly meet the team or experience the office environment. Making a list of things to consider before and after any remote interview will help you decide if the job is right for you and your skillset.
Interviews are two-way street
Just like the interviewer will ask you questions about yourself, your skills and your hobbies to get to know you, you should ask them some questions too. Remember that the person interviewing you will most likely be your boss, so try to get a better understanding of how they work, what they stand for, and whether you'll enjoy working with them.
You should also ask what will be expected of you on an everyday basis and what advancement programs are available. Make yourself a check list before the interview of things that you value and could potentially ask for and tick them off as you go. The last thing you want to do is sign a job contract, if successful, just to find out that the company doesn’t offer you any growth and the job is not what you expected it to be!
A hybrid working model also calls for the question of ‘'what support can I expect when working remotely, or as part of a hybrid team?’’ This is especially important to determine whether or not a job and a company are right for you, as this shows you whether you'll be left to do your own thing all day or if you'll have regular meetings and check-ups. Using this information, you'll know whether this job fits your preferred style of work.
Do you fit like a glove?
During your interview, try to get a better sense of your future boss. Analyse the communication skills of your potential manager. Be on the lookout for their clarity of thought, how they communicate their expectations of the role and of the successful candidate, and if they seem to be listening to you. It'll give you a good idea of what working with them would be like.
Consider whether you think you could form a strong relationship with their communication style? If you're more of a 'formal 24/7' type of person, and the interviewer is more relaxed, this might not be the job for you. In the same vein, if your future boss seems serious and you're more casual, then decide if you're willing to give up that side of things.
Preparation is key
Find out as much as possible about your prospective company before the remote interview. Look at the company's website and see what their culture is, their key values, and what they stand for. Look at their most recent articles, too. Take a look at how they interact with people on social media and see what they post also.
You should then look at the language used in the job posting. Does it describe what the job is about? Does it sound right? Are all the packages and benefits listed? Only then will you be able to build a clear picture of the opportunity presented.
Asking an interviewer a question they did not expect will show you how well they prepared for the interview. You'll get a better sense of how organised the company is and how they think on their feet. You’ll also get a most honest answer if you ask something they weren’t prepared to answer.
Prepare for the interview like you would for a face-to-face one. Here’s where you benefit from a remote interview; keep notes beside you, no one can see them!
Reflect
Examine your interview process from beginning to end. Did they seem interested in what you had to say? Did they let you speak without interrupting? How do you feel as a candidate? Did they communicate well and give detailed feedback? Were you kept up to date on your progress after the interview? Did they make you feel assured or let you know whether you’ll be progressing to the next stage? All these factors, plus your researched knowledge of the company, will give you a good idea of the company's culture and if it's one you are comfortable working with.
Although you will be conducting your interview remotely, that does not mean you cannot find all the information you need to decide whether or not this is the right opportunity for you. By following the steps above, you will be able to determine if the company or job you are applying for ticks all or most of your boxes.
If you’re still unsure about whether or not the job is a right fit for you, contact one of our specialist recruitment consultants today! We will listen to all your needs and help you find a job that you’ll be perfect fit for.