How should I prepare for an ESL job interview online?
Preparing for an ESL job interview online involves several key steps to ensure you present yourself effectively and make a strong impression. Firstly, it is crucial to research the company and understand the specifics of the position you are applying for. Review your resume and any teaching portfolio you have to be ready to discuss your experience and qualifications confidently.
Prior to the interview, test your technology, including your internet connection, webcam, and microphone, to avoid any technical issues. Also, consider the environment where you will be interviewed, ensuring it is quiet and professionally presented.
Prepare answers to common ESL teaching interview questions and think of insightful questions to ask your interviewer. Dressing professionally, even in an online setting, is important to convey a sense of professionalism. Finally, be punctual for your interview, and don't forget to send a follow-up thank-you message to your interviewer. These steps will not only prepare you technically and mentally but also demonstrate your professionalism and enthusiasm for the ESL teaching position.
Table of Contents
Here we look important steps for an ESL job interview in more depth:
Here we look important steps for an ESL job interview in more depth:
1. You must find a place that is quiet, well lit and free from interruptions to conduct your online interview. You will most likely be at home, but if not your venue needs to be suitable. If you do not have adequate lighting you may wish to purchase a cheap LED ring light to plug into the mains or USB port. Also bear in mind that due to world time zones your interview could be very early in the morning or very late at night so you can't rely on there being sunlight.
2. You will need to test your online connection and operating system, be it Skype or WhatsApp, or whatever. A good idea is to have a friend or family member call you about thirty minutes before you are due to start so that you can check your connection and get some real feedback about volume levels, lighting, etc.
3. You should try to make sure that you are online around 15 minutes before your actual interview starts. It is also useful to send them a message about 10 minutes before the interview to say you are online now and ready whenever they are. You may wish to add that you are looking forward to meeting them.
4. It is a good idea to dress for your online interview as if it were a real in-person interview. Also remember that even though they probably can't see the lower half of you, they might ask for something and you might have to get up and get it, so you need to be fully presentable. Standing up to reveal surfing shorts under your shirt and tie will not make a great impression.
Also read: What will a TESOL employer ask in an interview?
5. It is highly recommended that you use a microphone and earphones as it enhances the audio and will reduce a lot of frustration for the interviewer if they can't hear you properly, or you have to ask them to repeat their questions, as you can't hear them properly.
6. If you have small children or pets, it will probably be best to close the door and have someone look after them during the interview, so that they don't come in and interrupt you. As a follow-on from this point, also be aware of whatever is behind your head, as this will be visible to the interviewer.
7. During the interview you need to make sure that you speak English correctly and that you articulate well. If you are able to speak to someone before the interview to warm your brain up and to practice a few answers, then this will give you added confidence for the coming conversation.
8. Finally, non-verbal communication is very important, as it is in a real in-person interview. Be aware of your body language, for example playing with your hair, or making unusual facial expressions will be off-putting to the interviewer. Also make sure that you keep eye contact just the same as you would in a real in-person interview.
Good luck with your interviews!
Also read: What questions should I ask a TESOL employer?
