Video interviews are now the norm, not the exception. Whether it's a phone screen, panel interview, or final round, chances are you'll be interviewing remotely. While the fundamental interview skills still apply, video calls present unique technical and presentation challenges. Here's how to ace them.
Test Your Technology in Advance
Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection at least 24 hours before your interview. Download and familiarize yourself with the video platform (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet) beforehand.
Pro Tip:
Do a test call with a friend to check your audio/video quality and identify any issues.
Choose the Right Location
Select a quiet, private space with minimal distractions. Ensure the background is clean and professional—avoid bedrooms with unmade beds or cluttered spaces.
Pro Tip:
Use a plain wall or use a professional virtual background if necessary (but test it first!).
Perfect Your Lighting
Position yourself facing a window or light source. Avoid backlighting (windows behind you) which makes your face dark. Ring lights or desk lamps at eye level work great.
Pro Tip:
Natural light is best. If using artificial light, position it in front of you, slightly above eye level.
Frame Yourself Properly
Position your camera at eye level (stack books under your laptop if needed). Frame yourself from mid-chest up with a little space above your head. Sit close enough to be clearly visible.
Pro Tip:
Looking slightly up at the camera is more flattering than looking down.
Make "Eye Contact"
Look at the camera (not the screen) when speaking to simulate eye contact. This can feel unnatural but makes a huge difference in how engaged you appear.
Pro Tip:
Place a sticky note near your camera as a reminder to look there while speaking.
Dress Professionally (Head to Toe)
Dress as you would for an in-person interview—yes, including pants! You never know when you might need to stand up. Avoid busy patterns or all-white clothing which can cause camera issues.
Pro Tip:
Solid colors work best. Blue tones look great on camera.
Minimize Distractions
Close all browser tabs and applications except the video call. Silence your phone. Put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door. Notify household members about your interview time.
Pro Tip:
Turn off desktop notifications to avoid embarrassing pop-ups during your interview.
Have Notes Nearby
Keep your resume, the job description, and key talking points near your screen (but not on screen where you're reading constantly). Having notes helps you stay on track.
Pro Tip:
Tape notes just below your camera so you're looking up, not down.
Manage Technical Issues Gracefully
If you experience connectivity issues, stay calm. Have the interviewer's phone number handy to call if the connection drops. Always apologize briefly and move on—don't dwell on technical problems.
Pro Tip:
Plan B: Have your phone ready as a backup device with the meeting link already loaded.
Be Mindful of Your Body Language
Sit up straight, smile, and use hand gestures naturally (but keep them in frame). Avoid fidgeting, touching your face, or excessive movement which is more distracting on video.
Pro Tip:
Practice on a recorded call to see how you appear and adjust accordingly.
Key Takeaway
Video interviews may feel awkward at first, but with proper preparation and practice, you can present yourself just as effectively as you would in person—sometimes even better! The key is to treat it with the same professionalism as an in-person interview while accounting for the unique technical aspects. Master these best practices, and you'll stand out as a polished, tech-savvy candidate.
Need Professional Help?
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