Acing Online Interview

Five tips for acing your online job interview

A job interview can appear to be a daunting task and can be even more stressful in a digital environment. Interviewing via Zoom or Google Meet is quite different than giving an in-person interview. Though some basics apply to both, there are certain challenges for which the interviewee needs to be prepared to ensure smooth interaction. Since there is no fixed format to give an online interview, it mostly depends on the company and how they conduct it. If you are looking forward to working at Eaton and giving an interview in the near future, here are a few suggestions that can prove to be helpful.

Technical knowledge and soft skills are two sides of the same coin

One of the most crucial aspects of an interview is to do a thorough research of the company. At Eaton, we lay equal emphasis on technical knowledge as well as behavioural and interpersonal skills. Engineers are often asked problem-solving and project-based questions, which they need to answer according to their understanding. "How would you solve the problem of…" is a common question amongst interviewers when hiring engineers. So, read ahead and prepare for any question, coding-based or project-based, to always be ready with an answer. Further, brush up on your soft skills and behavioural competence. Make sure you are presentable, have your greetings in place, and are able to handle technical/technological questions gracefully.

Whether interacting face-to-face or through your laptop screen, it is utterly important to know about the company, especially its achievements.

Be ready to apply your knowledge

At Eaton, we are great believers of application. Knowledge can accrue dividends only if it is optimally applied. To assess this, we generally give candidates a real-life situation or challenge and then ask them how they would respond to such a situation. For example, we can give a case where you have made an oversight that has negatively impacted the work process. When the management questions you about this oversight, what would your response be? Would you own up to the mistake, make excuses, or simply deny having made it?

Check your technology

Disruption in the internet connection or microphone can be a nightmare during an online interview. If you don't want to bring that nightmare into reality, make sure to check your technology to ensure a smooth discussion.

Audio:

For the interviewer to hear you properly and vice-versa, make sure your device's speakers and microphone are working correctly. 

Camera and lighting:

It is best to choose the most professional background in your home, or even forge one, to give the interview so that the backdrop isn't too distracting. Also, ensure that there is proper lighting in the room, not too dark or light, so that the interviewer can focus on you. Just a handy tip, have a table lamp on your desk in addition to other lighting in the room . It gives visibility to your face

Internet connection:

The prime and foremost thing for any online platform to work is a stable internet connection. Video conferencing takes up a lot of bandwidth; thus, it is necessary to ensure that you have a good internet plan.

Online video-call platforms:

It is best to do a test trial with yourself to equip yourself with the platform in order to avoid being in a pickle while figuring out the video platform right before your interview.

Don't hesitate to ask questions

We always encourage two-way communication and believe it is pertinent for people sitting on both sides of the table to 'listen'. Thus, it would be advisable that you research the company before the interview, understand its core processes and products, and prepare any questions that you might have. Further, do not shy away from discussing your career trajectory at Eaton.

Speak clearly, listen carefully

Video conferencing can usually lag on either end, making it difficult for the interviewer to comprehend what you are saying. Therefore, it is best to speak slowly and enunciate your words for easy understanding. 

Contrary to popular opinion, it is important to listen in your interview as it is to speak. Online interviews can be challenging to pick up nonverbal cues or accidentally cut the other person off due to unstable internet. So, take a few seconds to answer the interviewer's question.

Engage using your body language

If you think your device's small screen might not capture your body language, you can't be more wrong. The camera is highly 'sensitive' to things like this, especially when the interviewer keeps an eye out. S/he can tell a lot about you as a potential employee through your body language. The correct posture and gestures will ooze confidence and gain you brownie points even over a video call. Fidgeting, crossed arms, reclining on the chair are few things that indicate negative body language during an interview.