Is online interview easier?

Whether an online interview is easier depends on several factors, such as the candidate’s comfort with technology, interview format, and personal preferences. Here are some pros and cons of online interviews compared to in-person interviews:

Advantages of Online Interviews:

1. Convenience and Comfort:

   • You can interview from the comfort of your home, which reduces stress related to commuting or being in an unfamiliar environment. This can make it easier to focus and perform better.
   • You can set up your interview space in a way that makes you feel relaxed and confident, potentially improving your answers and reducing anxiety.

2. Access to Notes and Resources:

   • In some cases, candidates may discreetly keep notes or prompts nearby during online interviews, which could be helpful for remembering key points or questions to ask.

3. Less Pressure from Physical Presence:

   • The absence of face-to-face pressure can make some candidates feel more at ease, especially those who experience social anxiety in in-person settings.

4. Technical Tools:

   • Tools like screen sharing and code editors for technical interviews make it easier to demonstrate skills virtually without worrying about physical whiteboards or in-person presentations.

Challenges of Online Interviews:

1. Technical Issues:

   • Unstable internet connections, audio/video problems, or software glitches can interrupt the flow of the interview, adding stress and making it harder to perform well.

2. Lack of Personal Connection:

   • It can be harder to build rapport with the interviewer through a screen. Non-verbal communication, such as eye contact and body language, is more difficult to convey, potentially making you feel less connected or engaging.

3. Distractions at Home:

   • If you’re interviewing from home, there’s the potential for distractions (family, pets, external noise), which can interrupt the interview or make it harder to focus.

4. Reduced Feedback:

   • Online, it may be harder to gauge the interviewer’s reactions or pick up on social cues. This can make it difficult to adjust your answers in real-time based on their body language or feedback.

Is it Easier Overall?

For some, online interviews are easier due to the convenience, familiar surroundings, and reduced pressure. For others, in-person interviews feel more natural, allowing for better communication and relationship-building. Ultimately, the ease of an online interview depends on your personal preferences, how well-prepared you are, and your comfort level with virtual interactions.

Preparation tips:

• Test your equipment ahead of time.
• Ensure a quiet, distraction-free environment.
• Practice maintaining eye contact by looking at the camera rather than the screen.

Sources:

• Indeed: How to Prepare for a Video Interview
• The Balance Careers: Pros and Cons of Video Interviews