{"id":197,"date":"2021-05-26T08:38:00","date_gmt":"2021-05-26T05:38:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/arc.dev\/developer-blog\/?p=197"},"modified":"2024-09-09T10:47:37","modified_gmt":"2024-09-09T02:47:37","slug":"remote-developer-interview-tips","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/arc.dev\/talent-blog\/remote-developer-interview-tips\/","title":{"rendered":"10+ Tips for Preparing for a Remote Software Developer Zoom Interview"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The use of the video conferencing platform Zoom skyrocketed in 2020<\/a>, but many companies were already using this tool to connect remote team members well before the pandemic. GitLab, for instance, had been using Zoom since 2016 to connect its more than 600 employees in 65+ countries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Zoom and other video tools are here to stay, which is why junior, mid-level, and senior developers need to be comfortable using these platforms for job interviews. As companies shift to permanent remote work, recruiters will rely on Zoom interviews more and more. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

According to one survey by ResumeGo, 43% of recruiters use Zoom, more than other platforms like Skype, Google Hangouts, or Microsoft Teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s worthwhile to familiarize yourself with the ins and outs of this particular platform. Here\u2019s how to put your best foot forward and make a good on-screen impression in your next Zoom interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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How to Prepare for a Video Interview: The Basics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Before you log in to the Zoom interview, set the scene. Find the right place for the interview \u2014 somewhere quiet with minimal background noise. Make sure to position your camera so the background is clean and simple with no distracting art, people walking through, or light reflections. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you can\u2019t find a place with a blank background, use Zoom\u2019s blur background feature or one of their background images to create a better environment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Give yourself enough space, too. \u201cNever sit right up against the wall,\u201d Karen Ripenburg, a TV producer and media trainer told Wired<\/a>. \u201cAllow for at least 3 feet minimum between the back of your head and the wall, so you don\u2019t blend into the background and flatten your shot. You will look more confident with some space, and not like you have no escape.\u201d Using training video software<\/a> can help you enhance your video quality and presentation skills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dress for success<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Not sure what to wear for a video interview? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most recruiters prefer business casual. If you\u2019re not sure, err on the side of being more formal. And, don\u2019t skip wearing pants! Just because you\u2019re seated doesn\u2019t mean a recruiter won\u2019t be able to tell \u2014 if you have to stand up to answer the door, for instance, or if the video doesn\u2019t end before you get up, the recruiter will get an eyeful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read More<\/strong>: 8 Common Interview Mistakes Remote Software Developers Make<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Test your tech<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Before the interview starts, make sure the camera and microphone are working. Use earbuds or other headphones with a microphone to make sure you\u2019re heard clearly. If you\u2019re working on a laptop or using wireless headphones, make sure all your equipment is fully charged. Close any unnecessary tabs on your computer and silence notifications on all your devices (especially your phone).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lastly, test out your video platform and other software. Make sure you are familiar with Zoom as well as any other tools you may be using, like CodePen or Google Docs. Test your internet speed using a site like speedtest.net. For Skype, Zoom, and other video calls, you want a minimum connection speed of 8Mps download, 1.5Mps upload.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Install whatever video conferencing tool you\u2019re using before you log in \u2014 and have a backup install on your phone or another device, just in case. Keep a copy of your software engineering CV<\/a> and the job description printed out so you can refer to it as needed, and consider getting a whiteboard or notebook and pen so you can dive into any technical questions that arise.<\/p>\n\n\n

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Different Types of Remote Interviews<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

You may prepare for your remote interview slightly differently, depending on which stage of the hiring process you are in. Remote interviews could require a coding challenge, or you could be asked behavioral interview questions<\/a> about your experience. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Some will involve a video service like Zoom, and others won\u2019t \u2014 but the challenge is the same. How do you put your best foot forward when you can’t speak to someone in person?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Phone Interview<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A phone interview or phone screen usually takes place in the initial phases of the hiring process. Beware that while the recruiter says \u201cphone\u201d interview, you still may receive a video call via FaceTime or Whatsapp. Approach this interview with the same care and preparation you would any other video or in-person interview.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read More<\/strong>: Phone Screen Interview vs Actual Phone Interview: Learn the Differences<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Coding Challenge<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

A remote coding challenge will often consist of some combination of a video interview and a coding task hosted in a code editor like CoderPad, Collabedit, or even a Google Doc.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

When you first start out, follow the recruiter\u2019s lead. They\u2019ll usually ask you to introduce yourself. You can also ask right away if your video and microphone are working well. Then, you may be asked to participate in either a live or asynchronous coding challenge.<\/p>\n\n\n\n