67%
of recruiters say body language influences the final decision
38%
of first-stage interviews are now conducted via video
7s
is the average time to make a lasting first impression

Fundamental Differences

Before any tips, it's essential to understand what changes from one format to the other. The table below summarises the main differences between in-person and remote interviews, helping you prepare more strategically for each scenario.

In-Person Remote (Video)
Environment Controlled by the company; observe the culture on-site Controlled by you; reveals your personal organisation
First impression Posture, handshake, full attire Framing, background, lighting, audio
Body language Full — posture, gestures, movement Partial — face, shoulders, eye contact with camera
Technical preparation Route, punctuality, physical documents Internet, microphone, camera, platform (Teams/Zoom)
Networking Informal encounters before/after (reception, lift) Limited to structured conversation
Logistical stress Traffic, parking, unfamiliar space Technical failures, notifications, home distractions

The essential point

Preparation for each format is different, but the goal is the same: convey confidence, competence and authenticity in the first few minutes.

Tips for In-Person Interviews

The physical space works in your favour — or against you. Every detail counts, from how you enter the room to the moment you say goodbye.

👔
Image
Dress for the next role
Research the company culture. In startups, a full suit may seem out of place; at a consultancy, casual may be detrimental.
🕐
Punctuality
Arrive 10 minutes early
No more. Arriving 30 minutes early creates pressure at reception. Use the time to observe the environment and calm your breathing.
🤝
Body language
Open posture, eye contact
Lean slightly forward when you speak. Avoid crossing your arms. Smile at the right moments — not in a forced way.
📁
Materials
Bring physical copies of your CV
Have 2–3 printed copies. Also bring a notebook — taking notes demonstrates attention and seriousness.

Tips for Remote Interviews

On screen, technical and visual details carry disproportionate weight. Prepare your "studio" with the same attention you would give to your attire for an in-person interview.

🎥
Camera
Camera at eye level
Use books or a stand to raise your laptop. Looking downward conveys a lack of confidence. Leave space at the top of the frame.
💡
Lighting
Natural light in front, never behind
Sit facing a window. If not possible, use a desk lamp pointed at your face. Overly bright backgrounds create silhouettes.
👁
Eye contact
Look at the camera, not the screen
Place a note next to the camera as a reminder. When listening, you can look at the screen; when speaking, focus on the camera.
🔧
Technical
Test everything 24h in advance
Check microphone, camera, connection and platform. Always have a backup plan: a phone number to call if the connection fails.
"Preparation is not what you do the night before.
It's what you built in the days before."

When to use each format?

There are contexts where each modality has clear advantages. Knowing them allows you to make more strategic decisions when you have the possibility to choose the interview format.

Prefer in-person when...
  • It's a senior or leadership position
  • You want to assess the company culture on-site
  • The role involves intensive interpersonal relationships
  • It's the final or decisive interview
  • The company is local and values physical presence
Remote works better when...
  • It's an initial screening or first-stage interview
  • The company has a remote-first culture
  • There is a time zone difference
  • You want to have notes or references visible during
  • The role is 100% remote

Preparation Checklist

Tick each point before the interview. Click on items as you complete your preparation.

Both formats In-person only Remote only

Extra tip: After the interview, send a thank-you email within the first 24 hours. Mention a specific point from the conversation to demonstrate attention and genuine interest in the role.

Complement your preparation

Before the interview, make sure your CV is optimised to pass the automatic filters. This video teaches you how to create an ATS-compatible curriculum — the first step to being called in.

How to Create an ATS-Compatible CV in 2026 — Complete tutorial

How to create an ATS-friendly CV →

Free tools

Prepare for the interview

Analyse your CV and LinkedIn profile before any interview. Discover what to improve to make the best impression.

Analyse my CV → Analyse my LinkedIn →