Online Interview Tips & Etiquette

Appearance

In an online interview, you will meet the interviewer as soon as you login to the interviewing platform. First impressions are very important because it's harder to convey yourself in an online interview than regular, face-to-face interviews. Therefore, be especially careful about your appearance and what you wear. As for what to wear during the interview, you should wear what you would at an event like the Career Forum.

Check the online interviewing platform you will be using

Some online interview platforms may need to be downloaded in advance.
When you receive a notification about scheduling your online interview, the company may not state which platform will be used.
If that's the case, log in to CFN 30 minutes before the interview and check to see if you can enter the interview room from the "Application History / Manage Reservation" page.

Place

Since a microphone will be used for online interviews, the surrounding sound could easily get picked up. Choose a quiet place for your online interview. Also, make sure that your Wi-Fi connection is stable.

Check your device

We recommend that you check the audio and video setting of the device you will be using for the online interview with another person prior to the interview. For audio, make sure to check in advance if it's clear. Also, make sure to have a charger close by so you don't have to worry about your device running out of battery.

How to start an online interview

Like with regular, face-to-face interviews, you should be ready and waiting before the interview starts. Be logged in to the online interviewing platform and ready to go at least 5 minutes before the interview. Make sure you have everything prepared in advance so that everything goes smoothly and nothing unexpected happens, such as not being able to connect to the interviewing platform. Once the interviewer enters, greet them while also checking to see if they can hear you.

Difference between online interviews and face-to-face interviews

With face-to-face interviews, you can convey yourself with words and also through nonverbal cues. 93% of one's impression comes from either tone of voice or body language (Mehrabian's Rule). However, with online interviews, it’s harder to convey yourself through the screen and nonverbal cues are not easily observable. Because of this, more focus will be on the things you convey with your words (introduction, reasons for applying, etc.), so make sure to be more prepared than ever.

Cautionary points during online interviews

If it’s difficult to hear the other person due to poor connection or their voice is too quiet, let them know and make sure you understand what the interviewer is saying. If you don’t clearly understand and continue with the interview, you won’t be able to answer correctly to their questions and won’t be able to communicate well. It’s also important to show you understand by nodding and responding.

How to practice online interviews

Try recording yourself with your smartphone or computer. You will be able to objectively see your interview from the interviewer's perspective and check your gaze, facial expressions, and speaking style. Also, with online interviews, there may be times where you will be the one speaking for a long time compared to a face-to-face conversation. You may get anxious and start talking faster if the interviewer doesn’t respond, so make sure to practice enough times beforehand.

Facial expression

First impressions are very important. It's hard to convey yourself online than face-to-face, so make sure to smile and show enthusiasm. Also, you might tend to look at the screen, but try to look at the camera when answering.

Speak in your own words even if you have notes

Try to avoid talking with your notes or resume next to you during the interview. If you look down at your notes when answering, the interviewer will be able to tell. Be prepared to speak in your own words. This goes for regular interviews as well.

After the interview

After the interview, thank them for their time. Also, wait for the interviewer to leave the meeting. Try to keep a smile until the interview is completely finished.