How to Prepare for a Remote Interview
I’ll be honest - when I began my Scrum Master journey nearly a decade ago, I did not think remote work would become as popular as it has. And with it we have seen an increase in remote interviews, especially as more companies realize that they can tap into a larger pool of qualified candidates when they don’t limit their search to just their local area. However, with changes come challenges. And in this case, the challenge for most (especially for those who have never worked/interviewed remote before) is how to approach the interview when it is not happening in person. Here are some things to keep in mind for your next remote interview:
Familiarize yourself with the tools: Make sure you are comfortable with the video conferencing software that will be used for the interview. Test your audio and video settings beforehand and ensure that you have a stable internet connection.
Create a professional setting: Choose a quiet and well-lit location for your interview. Make sure there are no distractions or disruptions in the background. Consider using a virtual background if needed.
Dress appropriately: Even though the interview is remote, it is important to dress professionally. This can help you feel more confident and prepared.
Practice your body language: Since the interviewer will not be able to see you in person, it is important to pay attention to your body language and facial expressions. Make eye contact by looking directly into the camera and use appropriate hand gestures to emphasize your points.
Prepare for technical issues: While you can do everything you can to minimize technical issues, it is important to have a plan in case something does go wrong. Make sure you have a backup plan in case of a power outage or internet connectivity issues.
Review the job description and requirements: Make sure you have a good understanding of the job duties and requirements, as well as the company culture. This will help you tailor your responses and showcase your fit for the role.
Prepare answers to common Scrum Master interview questions: Some common questions that may come up in a Scrum Master interview include:
How do you handle conflicts within a team?
How do you facilitate effective communication within a team?
How do you handle stakeholders who are resistant to change?
How do you measure the success of a Scrum team?
Remember, the interview is a chance for you to see if the company and the team are a good fit just as much as it is for the hiring team to ensure they pick a viable candidate for the role. So be relaxed and feel free to bring some questions for the hiring team as well. I hope this helps and I wish you all the best on your next Scrum Master interview!