Top online interview tips for landing your dream job in Singapore

Source: Freepik

​​While online interviews are convenient, you have to be on your game to make them work. Unlike in the old days, when you could rely on a firm handshake and good eye contact, you must now​​ know how to navigate the tech and communicate effectively through the screen.

To truly excel in this virtual landscape, you've got to tweak your prep game. It's all about crafting a professional digital persona, nailing the subtleties of online interaction, and mastering the art of presenting yourself through a webcam. It's not just about answering questions; it's about creating a memorable, engaging experience for the interviewer, even through a screen.

What is an online interview?

The job market in Singapore is highly competitive, with many opportunities in sectors such as finance, technology, and healthcare. Employers are increasingly turning to online interviews to streamline their hiring processes and reach a broader range of candidates. They can now connect with candidates from various locations, making hiring more efficient and expanding their talent pool.

Online interviews offer many benefits over traditional in-person ones. They are convenient for both parties, cutting out the need for travel and allowing flexible scheduling. Employers can reach a broader range of candidates, including those far away or with mobility issues. Plus, online interviews are cost-effective, reducing expenses related to travel and venue arrangements.

How online interviews differ from in-person interviews

Online interviews have become a go-to for employers in Singapore looking to connect with potential candidates in virtual interactions. There are two main types of online interviews: synchronous and asynchronous. Each type has its benefits and is best for different situations.

Synchronous interviews

Synchronous interviews are like traditional face-to-face meetings, but they are online. You and the interviewer log in simultaneously and talk in ​real-time​​ via video interview. This format is excellent for building a quick connection and allows for a more conversational discussion.

Asynchronous interviews

Asynchronous interviews are a bit different. You'll still be asked questions, but you'll record your answers on your own time. This can be a more convenient way to interview and give you time to think about your answers.

Considerations

Virtual job interviews have their own set of challenges and benefits. Because you're using technology, you need to make sure you have a good internet connection, the right equipment, and a quiet place to talk. But because you're in a different room than the interviewer, you must also work harder to show enthusiasm and interest through your voice and words.

But, at their core, online interviews are just like in-person ones. They're a way for employers in Singapore to see if you're a good fit for the job based on your skills, experience, and personality. And just like an in-person interview, the key to success is preparation. That means everything from researching the company to practising common interview questions to making sure you have a professional-looking virtual background.

With some foresight and savvy communication, you can flip the script on online interviews, turning them from hurdles ​into platforms that genuinely showcase your skills.

A job seeker preparing for a virtual interview by testing his microphone and taking down notes

Source: Freepik

How to prepare for an online interview

Choose the right technology for the online job interview

First things first, let's pick the right tool for the job. Laptops and desktops are the A-listers, with big screens and solid internet connections for video calls. But a tablet or smartphone can work in a pinch if they're not in the cards for you. Remember that the smaller screens and less powerful processors might make staying connected and engaged with your interviewer a bit trickier.

Curate a professional background for your interview

Your backdrop should be neutral, clean, and not steal the show from you. There should be no clutter or personal items that might raise an eyebrow. A plain wall is a safe bet, but a virtual background can be a cool, sleek option if you're into tech. Just steer clear of anything too loud or busy – we want all eyes on you.

The overall setup must look professional. So, find a well-lit, quiet spot, and make sure your camera is at eye level. If you can, grab a tripod or find a sturdy place to perch your camera so it doesn't wobble during the chat.

Also, let the folks around you know you have an interview, and kindly ask for some peace and quiet. Shut off notifications on your gadgets and close any extra tabs or programs that might steal your focus.

Ensure good lighting and sound quality

Natural light is your best friend, so set up near a window if possible. If the sun isn't cooperating, use artificial light – make sure it doesn't cast pesky shadows. Avoid sitting right in front of a bright light. It doesn't look good.

For sound, find a quiet spot free from background noise. Test your microphone in advance to avoid any last-minute hiccups. If you can, pop on a headset with a built-in mic for crystal-clear audio. Position the mic close to your mouth to keep things clear and minimise ambient noise.

Secure good internet connectivity for an online interview

Here are some tips ​for an online interview ​to guarantee optimal internet connectivity during your online interview and avoid technical difficulties:

• Select a suitable location: Stay where your Wi-Fi is at its best – close to your router or modem is ideal to keep the signal strong and steady.
• Test your connection: Before the interview, run a quick speed test on your internet connection. Plenty of free tools online can measure your download and upload speeds. Just make sure you're hitting the minimum required by the interview platform.
• Close unnecessary applications: Before you start, close unnecessary programs or applications running in the background. These applications may consume bandwidth and slow down your internet connection, affecting the quality of your video and audio.
• Avoid streaming content: Streaming can cause a traffic jam on the information highway.
• Inform your household: Give your family or housemates a heads-up about your interview and ask them to hold off on Netflix binges or online gaming. That way, you'll have the bandwidth to put your best foot forward.

Research the company and role

Take a moment to get to know the company and the role you're applying for in ​the Singapore​​ job market. The more you know, the more you can show that you're genuinely interested and that you understand what the job is all about.

Start by checking out the company website. Look at their mission, their values, and the products and services they offer. See what's new, what they're proud of, and what challenges they might be facing. Get the lowdown on the playing field. Who are the big names? What's the buzz? Knowing this will let you answer questions about the market like a pro.

Next, read that job description thoroughly. What are your potential employers looking for? What will you be doing? If you know anyone from the company, ask about their experience. They can give you the inside scoop on what it's really like to work there.

In Singapore, many companies ​emphasise​​​ cultural fit and alignment with their values, so be sure to understand these aspects as well. The more you know, the better off you'll be. You will wow the interviewer with your smarts and get a better sense of whether the company and the job are a good fit for you.

​​Practise​ common interview questions

You'll likely encounter two types of questions in your online interview: situational questions and company-specific questions. Situational questions assess how you handle work-related scenarios. Company-specific questions evaluate your knowledge about the company and how well you align with its values, culture, and goals.

You can convey confidence and competence during the interview by familiarising yourself with typical questions and honing your responses. Here are some tips for practising effectively:

• Research common interview questions: Start by looking up the typical questions you might be asked for the job and field you're interested in within the Singapore job market. There are tons of resources online that compile these questions. Get to know them, and you'll be ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
• Tailor your answers: Customise your responses to fit the company and the job. This shows that you're clued in on what's needed and that you're genuinely excited about the chance.
• Use the STAR method: The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is your go-to for tackling situational interview questions. Here's the drill: paint a picture of the situation, spell out your task, and talk about your moves and the positive results you scored.
• Practice aloud: Speaking your answers out loud can make a world of difference in how you present yourself. You could try it in front of a mirror, record yourself, or even rope in a friend or family member to play the part of an interviewer.
• Focus on your strengths: Focus on your strengths and achievements that are particularly relevant to the Singaporean job market. Choose the skills and experiences most relevant to the job and prepare to discuss them confidently.
• Handle difficult questions gracefully: Sometimes, you might get a curveball question. The key is to stay calm, answer as best you can, and show off your problem-solving skills and ability to bounce back.

The aim isn't to parrot back canned responses but to truly grasp and communicate your experiences with clarity and brevity. With effective practice, you'll be ready to confidently tackle interview questions and leave a lasting, positive impression during your online interview.

Test your equipment

You'll sidestep these potential hiccups by testing everything in advance. Here's a quick checklist to run through:

• Run an internet speed test: You can find ​several internet speed tests​​​ on the web. Aim for a download speed of at least 10 Mbps and an upload speed of 3 Mbps. If your internet is dragging, think about switching to a wired connection or cosying up closer to your router.
• Have a backup plan: Sometimes, life throws us a curveball. If your internet takes an unexpected break during your interview, be ready with a backup plan. It could be as simple as having your smartphone or tablet on standby or finding a spot with a more reliable connection, like a local cafe or library. Just ensure you have all the login details and interview platform access on your backup device.
• Familiarise yourself with​ the​ video conferencing app: Before the big day, get cosy with the video conferencing app on the menu. You'll want to know how to join a meeting, flick on your camera and mic, and share your screen if needed. Play around with the features, like muting and unmuting, and get the volume right. The goal? To be as cool as a cucumber, use them during your interview.

How to dress for an online interview

The secret to nailing your online interview look is to find that sweet spot between polished and comfortable. Of course, you want to look your best, but not at the expense of feeling like you can't be yourself.

Here are a few tips to help you choose the right outfit for your online interview:

• Dress for the job you want, not the job you have. Choose attire that fits the role and the company. Here's a tip: lean towards more formal attire if you're aiming for a role in a traditional field, like finance or law. But if it's a creative gig you're after, you can let your style shine a bit more.
• Stay casual and casual with your outfit. You want to look professional, but not like you're trying too hard.
• Opt for sharp but comfortable clothing. You don't want to fidget with your clothes during the interview, so make sure they're comfortable enough to wear for an extended period of time.
• Avoid anything that's crumpled or marked. We all want to look our best, so let's ensure our clothes are clean and pressed.
• Think about the colours and patterns you're wearing. Some colours and patterns can be camera-friendly, while others might steal the show. Opt for solid colours or subtle patterns that won't overpower your message.

Tip: Test your outfit before the interview. Don't let a wardrobe malfunction throw you off your game. Do a quick test run in front of the camera to make sure you're looking and feeling your best.

A confident job candidate making a good impression in his online interview process

Source: Freepik

During the interview

Make a strong first impression by introducing yourself with confidence and clarity. Maintain eye contact with the camera and smile to convey enthusiasm. Throughout the interview, project professionalism by speaking clearly and concisely, actively listening to the interviewer's questions and responding thoughtfully.

Technical hiccups happen. If your internet ​connection becomes unstable or your audio goes wonky, don't panic. Just let the interviewer know immediately and do your best to fix it. Stay cool, say sorry, and show them you're on it. Chances are, they've been there too. How you handle the bumps can speak volumes about your composure and problem-solving skills.

Last but not least, set the stage for the interview. You should be in a quiet, well-lit space where you can focus. Keep your camera on, silence your phone, and make sure your family members (or pets) know not to disturb you. This will show the interviewer that you're serious and fully engaged in the conversation.

What to do after an online interview

Send a thank you note

Send a thank-you note to the interviewer within 24 hours of the interview. Thank them for their time and express your enthusiasm for the position. Also, mention something specific you discussed in the interview or something you like about the company. This will show that you were paying attention and that you're genuinely interested.

Follow up on the interview results

Follow up with the interviewer about a week or two after your interview. This shows you're proactive and eager to know the status of your application. You can reach out via email or phone. Just be sure to be polite and professional and avoid coming off as pushy.

Conclusion: Master online interviews with confidence

Nailing an online interview is all about being ready and showing up like the pro you are. Dress the part, set the scene, and tackle those tech hiccups head-on.

Look at each interview as a chance to grow, and approach the next one with even more confidence. The job hunt can be a bit of a rollercoaster, but with our online interview tips, the right attitude, and a game plan, you're setting yourself up for success.

FAQ

1. What equipment do I need for an online interview?
   ⁠You'll need a device with a reliable internet connection, a webcam, and a microphone. A quiet, well-lit space is also essential to ensure you present yourself professionally.
2. How can I ensure a stable internet connection during the interview?
   ⁠If possible, use a wired connection, position yourself close to the router, and close unnecessary applications to optimise bandwidth. Running a quick internet speed test beforehand can also help ensure stability.
3. What is the best way to prepare my interview space or background?
   ⁠Choose a neutral, distraction-free background. Ensure your space is clean and professional-looking, and minimise potential disruptions by informing housemates or family members about your interview.
4. How should I dress for an online interview?
   ⁠Wear clothing that looks good on camera, avoiding overly bright colours or busy patterns. Focus on the upper half of your body, as this will be most visible. Dress professionally, but make sure you feel comfortable.
5. How can I ​practise​​​ good eye contact and body language in a virtual setting?
   ⁠Look at the camera to maintain eye contact and use natural body language to convey engagement and attentiveness. ​Practise​ your responses aloud to build confidence and ensure you come across well on camera.
6. Are there any cultural considerations to keep in mind for an online interview in Singapore?
   ⁠Yes, it’s important to be respectful and show humility. Singaporean employers appreciate punctuality, clear communication, and professionalism. Being prepared, polite, and showing a genuine interest in the role and company will help you make a positive impression.
7. How can I effectively research the company and role before an online interview in Singapore?
   ⁠Start by exploring the company's website, including its mission, values, products, and services. Read recent news articles, press releases, and industry reports. Understand the company's position in the market and familiarise yourself with its competitors.
8. What are situational and company-specific questions in an interview?
   ⁠Situational questions assess how you handle work-related scenarios and test your problem-solving skills. Company-specific questions evaluate your knowledge about the company and how well you align with its values, culture, and goals.
9. How can I make a strong impression during an online interview?
   ⁠Introduce yourself confidently, maintain eye contact with the camera, and smile to convey enthusiasm. Show active listening by nodding and giving verbal acknowledgements. Ask thoughtful follow-up questions and demonstrate your knowledge about the company and role.
10. What should I do after an online interview?
    ⁠Send a thank-you note within 24 hours, expressing your gratitude and continued interest in the position. Mention specific parts of the conversation to show you were paying attention. Follow up on the interview results after one to two weeks, maintaining a polite and professional tone.