News

How to prepare for an online interview – tips for candidates

Posted: 22 Aug 2022

How to prepare for an online interview – tips for candidates

Good preparation and practising how to look professional when using video conferencing apps can help you succeed in an online interview.

During the pandemic remote interviewing became a necessity for hiring. It is now a trend that is gaining further traction as businesses continue to downsize office space and take advantage of their employees working remotely. Here are some tips to help you prepare for an online interview.

How to prepare for your interview

As for any other interview, preparation for an online interview is vital. Make sure that you read the job specification carefully and understand what the advertised role involves. Study your CV and try to anticipate questions you may be asked about your background and experience.

Research the company focusing in particular on learning how the business works. Read up on the trends that are affecting the industry and remember to prepare answers for commonly-asked questions such as:

  • What do you know about our business?
  • What impressions have you formed of our industry?
  • What attracts you to this role?
  • How did you prepare for this interview?

Many interviews for IT roles include competency-based questions. These are probing questions where you are asked to refer to examples from your past experience. You might be asked to talk about a time when you had to deal with a particular problem, or to describe a situation where your skills contributed to the outcome of a team task, or to give an example of a time when you had to work to a tight deadline or manage multiple projects, explaining how you prioritised and managed your time. You can read more about competency based interviews elsewhere on our website.

Another line of questioning that is common in interviews for IT roles relates to how you keep up with technology developments. Being able to demonstrate commitment to lifelong learning comes across well so it is worth thinking about this in advance and having some examples that you can call on if needed. Courses you may have undertaken and certifications that you have achieved are particularly relevant for this type of question.

Often, at the end of an interview, you will be asked if you have any questions you would like to ask the panel. This is sometimes a danger point for candidates. Asking about salary, benefits or conditions of employment can make it look like you are more interested in the perks than in the job itself. You don’t want to leave a bad impression. This article shares some tips on how to avoid sabotaging your job interview.

Setting up your environment

For an online interview, it is important to set up and test your environment in advance. Make sure you know what technology will be used and familiarise yourself with how it works. Whether it’s Skype, Zoom, WhatsApp or some other app, practice in advance, paying attention to how you look onscreen and what is visible in the background of the space where you intend to be when the interview takes place is vital.

If possible, use your laptop rather than your phone as this will give you a better view of the interview panel’s reaction to your answers.  Make sure that you have a good Internet connection. If you have to use your phone for the interview, make sure you have a strong signal.

Dressing appropriately and paying attention to your body language are also important for an online interview. When testing your environment and technology set-up and checking how you look onscreen, practice looking composed. This will help you to remain calm. Maintain eye contact with the camera and, above all, avoid fidgeting! An interviewer will be able to see if you are not listening or if you allow yourself to be distracted by notifications on your screen or social media.

Second interviews

Keep a note of the questions you are asked as you may need to refer back to your notes if you are called for a second interview. If you are applying for a senior role, it is fairly common to be asked to deliver a presentation at a second interview. Elsewhere on our website, you will find some advice on how to prepare for an interview presentation. Thorough preparation, plenty of practice and confident, clear delivery are essential.

Keep in touch with your recruiter

Eolas Recruitment’s services include helping you identify your strengths, prepare your CV and present yourself in the best possible light to potential employers. For more information, check out our informational videos and online reviews or contact a member of our team who will be able to provide useful information and tips for your interview. We can also give you feedback on your interview performance which can be very valuable for future interviews.

Previous Page Search IT JobsInformation for JobseekersContact

Related NewsView all news

Creative_Illustration_Eolas_Recruitment_4-01_900x500_acf_cropped

Businesses are still hungry for Tech Skills

  • 3 May 2023

For some employers, greater availability of talent in the current market presents an opportunity to strengthen their permanent tech resources. It also makes it easier to bring on board interim workers or contractors for urgent or specialised...

Read more
how-to-stand-out-from-the-crowd-erisberg-aquires-article-img_900x500_acf_cropped

How to stand out from the crowd when applying for tech roles

  • 2 Mar 2023

Skills shortages in the tech sector continue to make it difficult for employers to attract and retain good candidates. Demand for both permanent and contract tech workers intensified during the Covid-19 pandemic as traditional businesses were forced...

Read more
eolas-feat-3_900x500_acf_cropped

Registering with a specialist IT recruiter. What are the benefits?

  • 2 Sep 2022

There is no shortage of opportunities for IT professionals in Ireland at present however it can be difficult to know where to start when thinking about applying for a new job. A good way to get to grips with the market is to register with a...

Read more

Latest Reviews

I had an absolutely wonderful experience with Eolas, and I am immensely grateful for the outstanding support and assistance provided by Sean Prendergast. From the moment I engaged with Eolas, Sean has been an incredible resource and advocate, ensuring that my journey with the company was nothing short of exceptional.Throughout the entire recruitment process, Sean's professionalism shone through. His expertise and guidance were invaluable in helping me navigate every step, from the initial interview to securing the position. His attention to detail and commitment to understanding my career aspirations made me feel truly heard and valued as a candidate.I highly recommend Eolas to anyone seeking professional recruitment services. Their commitment to excellence, attention to detail, and genuine care for candidates make them a standout choice in the industry. My experience with Eolas was truly outstanding, and I am confident they will continue to assist many individuals in their pursuit of fulfilling careers.A heartfelt thank you to Jim Ryan, the Managing Director of Eolas, for his exceptional leadership and support.
Jorge Acosta
Jorge Acosta
11:24 18 May 23
Nicola was very helpful and professional throughout the recruitment process. She answered the many questions I had in a clear and concise manner. Overall great communication throughout.
Fintan Moloney
Fintan Moloney
08:50 18 May 23
Nicola did an awesome job, always keeping me posted about the status of my job application and interviews. She provided great materials to help prepare and was very transparent in setting expectations and negotiating on my behalf. I highly recommend.
Aymeric P
Aymeric P
10:19 12 May 23
Very Professional, friendly and helpful with queries. Helped me through the whole process with regular updates and communication.
Andrew OConnor
Andrew OConnor
05:23 10 May 23
My dealings with Nicola as a senior recruiter was one of the best experiences I’ve had in my years of engaging with recruitment agencies. Nicola’s professionalism, courtesy and friendly manner was refreshing. I highly recommend Nicola as a recruitment partner. David
David Brady
David Brady
17:06 03 May 23
I dealt with Nicola Byrne whom I found to be excellent, particularly in keeping me up to date and staying in contact. I would recommend Nicola and Eolas to anyone seeking a new role.
Daryl McGrath
Daryl McGrath
20:53 26 Apr 23
I had a great experience with Eolas. They contacted me for a role that suited my needs exactly. The interview process happened very smoothy thanks to the way they communicated and organised the interviews.
Barry McMahon
Barry McMahon
07:56 20 Apr 23
Eolas has been great for me. They are to the point and beyond helpful and supportive, going the extra mile but taking you there as well so you are the best you when you need to be. Cant recommend them enough, and I hope to be working with them for a long time and on many occassions.
Diego M. Sieiro
Diego M. Sieiro
10:36 14 Apr 23
Fantastic company. Peter Kirby contacted me and was extremely helpful and responsive throughout the entire interview and hiring process. I highly recommend Eolas recruitment!
Paul
Paul
10:07 14 Apr 23
I had the pleasure and good fortune of working with Eolas and Peter Kirby in particular. I was matched to a role that is the perfect fit for me. Peter Kirby and Caoimhe Cronin made the recruitment process seamless. Fast, efficient, helpful, courteous and friendly. I have no hesitation in giving Eolas my highest recommendation, definitely deserving of a 5 star!
Miriam O'Dowd
Miriam O'Dowd
17:03 11 Apr 23
Great experience when joining new my contract role. Got all my questions answered very quickly through Caoimhe. She was very responsive and professional throughout my process from scheduling interview till my first day. Very well detailed information was provided to me for my first day, so thank you!
Satpreet Singh
Satpreet Singh
00:54 20 Mar 23
My experience with Eolas recruitment was fantastic, Sean Prendergast was a pleasure to deal with, he kept me informed throughout the whole process and I would recommend Sean and the Eolas team to anyone looking for a new job position
Valerie Flynn
Valerie Flynn
16:47 17 Feb 23
Recruitment process was smooth. Alan was in touch with me via email even when I was out of Ireland. I was given sufficient time for interview preparation and they also gave me enough time to rest after coming back to Ireland and did not rush me to join work immediately. The onboarding process went smooth as well. Alan was very helpful throughout. Thanks Eolas for your service and helping me get a contract job.
Deepika Phadtare
Deepika Phadtare
09:31 08 Feb 23
I would highly recommend Eolas Recruitment. It was Very quick response to my application and they kept me up to date with every stage of the process. I am just about to start a great new role thanks to their fantastic services. I wanted to thank STEPHEN DALY and CAOIMHE CRONIN for all the support and encouragement. 😇
Sasikala R
Sasikala R
19:57 06 Feb 23
Great working with this agency, I landed a great opportunity with them, they do everything with people looking to change like me, Special thanks to Luke P for going beyond to help in any he could.
Ciaran Collins
Ciaran Collins
19:47 02 Feb 23
My fresh experience with eolas recruitment was excellent and amazing, Peter Kirby and Caoimhe Cronin was really supportive and professional, guided me through the entire interview process and supported me every moment before and after the interview. I am very grateful to eolas as my recruiting agency. Thank you for the great service you offered.Lijumol Shaji
lijumol Shaji
lijumol Shaji
09:46 28 Jan 23
It was a wonderful experience throughout the recruitment process. Luke Prendergast dealt and assisted me with every step in a very professional manner.
Khushpinder Singh
Khushpinder Singh
12:24 17 Jan 23
I'm currently contracting through Eolas and I couldn't recommend them enough. Everything from interviews through to supporting on boarding has been very efficient. I've dealt primarily with Stephen Daly for recruitment, he's a gentleman, very competent and always available for questions. Also Berilyn Teeling my accounts contact is very friendly and professional.One stand out feature is the communication between agents in Eolas. When you take the time to reply with feedback to one of the Eolas agents about a proposed role that isn't for you, you'll be contacted about a position that suits you if one arises!
Christopher Casey
Christopher Casey
11:44 17 Jan 23
It was an amazing experience with Eolas recruitment team.Caoimhe Cronin was very helpful all the way through the recruitment process. I would say it was one of the best HR experiences I have with Caoimhe.Thank you for all your help and support.
aitham vinay
aitham vinay
15:14 09 Jan 23
Excellent experience going through the recruitment process with Eolas Recruitment as a job seeker. Alan was superb in keeping me up to date and preparing me for the various interview rounds. I can highly recommend.
Thomas O'Brien
Thomas O'Brien
14:04 09 Jan 23
My experience with Eolas was great. It was a pleasure dealing with Alan Kane. He was extremely professional and helpful throughout the process.He kept me up to date with my progress after the interview. I would higly recommend Alan and Eolas team.
Komal Joshi
Komal Joshi
14:10 03 Jan 23
Alan and Peter were great at onboarding me through the process. They helped to give me whatever resources and understanding I needed in order to settle my nerves at every step of the way and I couldn't be more grateful for their help! Highly recommend.
Tadhg Deeney
Tadhg Deeney
14:50 24 Dec 22
I was with Caroline on securing a position with a tech company.The job specification on the position was clear. I was also able to get a salary range the position offered and not "competitive salary" answer.The company I applied for was a bit slow at getting back. Eolas followed up with what the delay was and kept me up to date with what was happening.Got interviews: YesGot Job Specs: YesGot Salary Range: YesGot Position: YesThomas
Tom Walsh
Tom Walsh
16:22 08 Dec 22
I had a great experience working with Peter Kirby and Caoimhe Cronin at Eolas. They are very professional and very communicative. I received supports and adviceseach step through the whole process. I would highly recommend Eolas. Thanks a million!
Wei Duan
Wei Duan
18:50 22 Nov 22
From the initial discussion about my role through, the vetting, onboarding and right through to the invoicing and payment process the experience with Eolas has been first rate. Luke helped me highlight the items on the CV that the client was looking for and Stephen gave me solid advice about how to invoice in Euros from a UK company. Stephen advised me to open a euro account. Advice which I initially ignored...at my cost...the Royal Bank of Scotland creamed 4.6% of my first invoice! Next time I will listen to the voice of experience.
Tony Hasler
Tony Hasler
08:51 18 Nov 22
I had an incredible experience with Eolas and Peter Kirby. I was prepped for my interview and received regular updates throughout the process. By far, the best experience I’ve had with a recruiter and would thoroughly recommend.
Liane Mulvaney
Liane Mulvaney
18:56 25 Oct 22
I would highly recommend Eolas recruitment. Have been placed in a couple of roles during my career and have always found the team to be very competent, honest and efficient.
Finbar Pimlott
Finbar Pimlott
15:04 24 Oct 22
Fantastic support received from Sean Prendergast. He went above and beyond to match my experience and interest to the role and company, gave me great preparation for the interview and kept me fully informed every step of the way. He was professional and personable, and I would highly recommend his services.
Katie O' Connor
Katie O' Connor
15:19 21 Oct 22
One of the best recruitment companies in Ireland. Alan from Eolas helped me right from day 1 of my process and is even catching up with me after getting an offer letter. A big thanks to Eolas and Alan for their commitment in getting candidates the right job in top companies.
Dheeraj Shetty
Dheeraj Shetty
16:49 20 Oct 22
My experience with Eolas was a fantastic one It was a pleasure dealing with Peter Kirby who was very professional. Throughout the interview process his advice and guidance proved to be extremely helpful. I received help preparing for my interview. I was thoroughly informed about what the interview was going to be like. I was also kept up to date with my progress after the interview. The turnaround time was phenomenal! I recommend the Eolas team to anyone searching for a new position.
Rowena Bisschoff
Rowena Bisschoff
12:20 10 Oct 22

Upload your CV

  • Send us your CV and we'll be in touch with jobs relevant to you.

  • Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, Max. file size: 10 MB.
  • In order to submit this form you'll need to agree with our Privacy Policy