News: Now You Can Interview Virtually on Indeed

Interviewing is an exciting but demanding step in the job search process. Especially now as many of us interview virtually, which can bring a new set of challenges. While virtual interviewing became more prominent due to COVID-19, it may be a long-term trend in some ways to make hiring quicker and easier.

As a result, you can now find jobs on Indeed that fast-track you directly to a scheduled interview after meeting certain criteria. In 2021, we launched a Virtual Hiring Tour where more than 20,000 U.S. job seekers were hired this way.

In this article, we’ll explain how you can find these jobs on Indeed with tips for succeeding in your next virtual interview.

How you can virtually interview on Indeed

Here’s how you can find jobs that offer virtual interviews on Indeed:

1. Search for jobs

Start by searching for jobs on Indeed as you normally would. Search job titles, companies or keywords in the ‘what’ box and desired location or “remote” in the ‘where’ box. You can filter your search results by date posted, salary, job type, experience and more.

Some of the most common jobs with this capability on Indeed include, but are not limited to, warehouse associates, customer service representatives, delivery drivers, freight handlers, order pickers, nursing and medical assistants, retail and hospitality associates and more.

Pro tip: RSVP for virtual hiring events, typically used by employers to hire for many roles quickly, which may increase your chances of securing a job. Start by searching virtual hiring events on Indeed.

Related: Tips From a Recruiter: Mastering the Virtual Interview

2. Note jobs eligible for virtual interviews in your search results

From the search results page, you’ll also be able to see roles with “Schedule an interview” near the bottom of the posting. This means the role is eligible for virtual interviews.

If you find an interview-eligible job you’re interested in that also fits your qualifications, you can complete a short screener from the job posting. If you answer the screener questions correctly, you’ll be able to select a virtual interview time from the ones the employer has listed.

3. Let employers find you

You can also virtually interview with employers who identify you as a good fit for the job through your Indeed Resume, or if you apply for the job traditionally. You can make your Indeed Resume visible to employers by setting it to “public” in the resume privacy settings found in your Profile.

In this case, you’ll get an email invite to a virtual interview from the employer. If you confirm, you’ll receive a link to learn more about what will be covered in the interview and share a note with the employer if you choose.

4. Interview from anywhere

Leading up to your scheduled interview, you’ll receive text message reminders. Then, when the time comes, you’ll be able to connect with prospective employers from the comfort of your home. You’ll also get access to a curated collection of interview tips and exercises so you can feel prepared and confident as you head into your interview.

The benefits of interviewing virtually on Indeed

Interviewing on Indeed makes it possible to meet virtually with employers when and how you’d like, all while helping you find jobs faster by cutting out the application review process. Here are a few more ways virtual interviewing can benefit your job search:

• Meet employers faster. Scheduling your virtual interview on Indeed after passing the screener means you don’t have to wait to hear back on next steps after applying for the job.

• Skip applications and cover letters. Screener questions automatically qualify you to meet with employers and replace the need for you to fill out applications or send in cover letters.

• Speed up your job search. With eligible roles, you can interview within days, which means you can find the right job more quickly.

• Interview on your terms. Schedule an interview at a time that works for you. While you can interview from home, you can also interview remotely from any device, wherever you are.

• Get access to interview advice. Boost your confidence with interview tips and exercises including advice on how best to present yourself, from what to wear to how to communicate your strengths to employers. You’ll also get technology tips and checks to ensure a smooth interview.

• Conduct research while you wait. On Indeed’s interview platform, you’ll have access to company information to help you prepare for your meeting. Get ready for your conversation by understanding the company’s mission, values and goals.

• Chat with support during your interview. If you run into any issues, you’ll be able to chat with a live support team throughout your interview. You can troubleshoot technical problems, ask about how to use the platform, get information on next steps and more.

Tips to succeed in your next virtual interview

While interviews can feel daunting—especially when you’re doing so virtually—there are several ways you can prepare beforehand to feel confident, comfortable and prepared.

Here are some tips to have a successful virtual interview:

1. Prepare in advance

Just as you might for an in-person job interview, preparing beforehand can help you feel more calm and confident about the interview.

Because you’re interviewing virtually, you also have the advantage of keeping notes nearby to reference if needed. However, avoid sounding too rehearsed when you answer—your interview should feel like a conversation.

Here are four ways you should plan to prepare for your interview:

• Plan your answers for commonly asked interview questions

• Research the company

• Carefully review the job description noting your relevant qualifications

• Prepare relevant examples of your achievements and experiences

Read more: How To Prepare For an Interview

2. Test your technology beforehand

Virtual meeting platforms typically utilize a camera and microphone to convert video and audio to your interviewer. If you’re able, it’s best to quickly check your connection in the day or two leading up to your interview to ensure your technology is working properly. You should also sign in 15-20 minutes before your meeting to ensure a good connection and perform video and mic checks.

Ask a trusted friend or family member if they’ll chat with you to ensure your video and audio translate clearly. At this time, you can also make sure your video is visually appealing with the following checklist:

• Does your face appear near the middle of the screen without too much space above or below your head? If not, adjust your computer up or down until it looks and feels good.

• Is your face well-lit and visible? If not, make sure the light is coming from behind your computer, not behind your face. If needed, you might set up a lamp or another light source behind your computer.

• Do you feel confident about your appearance? Placing your computer on a riser such as a thick book or shoebox so the camera hits your face straight-on or from a slightly downward angle can help improve your appearance on camera.

Related: Video Interview Guide: Tips for a Successful Interview

3. Wear professional attire

During your interview, dress just as you would for an in-person interview. Typically, it’s best to dress one step more formal than the company’s daily dress code, but if you’re unsure, business casual is usually safe. You can also ask the company’s recruiter if there are any dress codes you should keep in mind.

4. Limit distractions

It’s best to take your interview from a quiet room with little to no distractions. If you don’t have a separate room, find a quiet, well-lit corner with a plain, non-distracting background.

If you’re sharing a space with others, let them know the time and date of your interview and that you should not be disturbed. You might also consider making a sign for the door of the room you’re interviewing in so housemates know not to knock or enter.

If possible, it might also be beneficial to ask a friend or family member to take care of any pets or children so you can have a quiet, focused conversation.

Related: A Parent's Guide to Working From Home With Kids

5. Be courteous

When interviewing virtually, it’s important to use your nonverbal cues, like hand gestures and facial expressions to establish professional rapport with your interviewer. For example, if you’re asked a difficult interview question, stay calm and composed and ask the interviewer for a moment to collect your thoughts.

Instead of shaking hands as you would do so in person, try waving your hand and smiling to greet your interviewer through the screen. Adjust your camera so your face appears in the middle of the screen, without too much space above or below your head.

6. Build rapport

Establishing a friendly but professional rapport throughout your interview can help the interviewer learn more about your personality, and help the conversation feel more natural and relaxed.

You can do this by being prepared to talk about a common interest, asking how your interviewer’s experience has been with virtual interviews or by finding another neutral topic to learn more about your interviewer.

Read more: Building Rapport: Tips and Examples

7. Follow up

After your interview, consider sending a follow-up note thanking your interviewer for their time, reminding them of your interest and expressing gratitude and excitement about the opportunity. It’s best to include one or two details from your conversation to make it personal and genuine.

Contact your HR representative or recruiter to get the interviewer’s email address. They may offer to pass your note along internally if they have a policy against sending out employee contact information.