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How to Prepare for a Video Interview
Video interviews are now standard. Learn how to set up your tech, lighting, and background to make a great impression – plus tips for maintaining virtual eye contact.
86%
Companies Use Video
15 min
Setup Before
Camera
Look at Camera, Not Screen
Technical Setup Checklist
Quick Answer: Test everything 24 hours before and 15 minutes before the interview. Ensure stable internet, working camera/mic, and familiarity with the video platform. Have a backup plan (phone, different location) in case of tech failure.
Essential Equipment
- Camera: Built-in laptop camera is fine; external webcam for better quality
- Microphone: Earbuds or headset for clearer audio
- Internet: Wired connection is most stable; strong WiFi as backup
- Computer: Close unnecessary applications to improve performance
- Power: Laptop plugged in to avoid battery issues
Pre-Interview Tech Checklist
- Test video platform (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.)
- Check camera positioning and framing
- Test microphone audio levels
- Verify internet speed (speedtest.net)
- Close unnecessary browser tabs and apps
- Turn off notifications (phone and computer)
- Have interviewer’s phone number for emergencies
Backup Plans
- Download mobile app as backup
- Save interviewer’s contact info
- Know alternate location with good WiFi
- Have phone charged and ready
Lighting and Background Setup
Quick Answer: Face a window or light source (never have light behind you). Use a neutral, uncluttered background. A bookshelf or plain wall works well. Your face should be well-lit without harsh shadows.
Lighting Tips
- Best: Natural light from a window in front of you
- Good: Ring light or desk lamp facing you
- Avoid: Backlighting (window behind you = silhouette)
- Avoid: Overhead lighting only (creates shadows)
Background Options
- Ideal: Plain wall or neat bookshelf
- Acceptable: Tidy home office, simple room
- Professional blur: Most platforms offer background blur
- Virtual backgrounds: Use professional ones if needed, but real backgrounds are better
What to Remove from Background
- Personal photos or controversial items
- Messy spaces or laundry
- Moving elements (pets, people, TV)
- Distracting art or decorations
Maintaining Virtual Eye Contact
Quick Answer: Look at the camera lens, not the screen. This creates the impression of eye contact for the interviewer. Place the video window near your camera to make this easier. Glance at the screen occasionally, but return to the camera.
Camera Positioning
- Camera at eye level (use books to raise laptop if needed)
- Position your video call window near the camera
- Sit arm’s length from screen
- Frame shows head and shoulders (not just face, not full torso)
Eye Contact Techniques
- Put a small sticker or note near camera as a reminder
- Practice looking at the camera while talking
- Glance at screen occasionally (to see reactions) but return to camera
- Look at camera especially when making important points
Body Language
- Sit up straight but relaxed
- Nod and smile appropriately
- Use hand gestures naturally (they may be visible)
- Avoid fidgeting, touching face, or looking away frequently
What to Wear for Video Interviews
Dress Code Guidelines
- Rule: Dress as you would for an in-person interview
- Top: Solid colors work best (avoid busy patterns)
- Colors: Blues, greens, and neutral tones are flattering on camera
- Avoid: Bright white (too much glare) and pure black (may look like floating head)
- Full outfit: Yes, wear pants – you might need to stand up
Technical Considerations
- Avoid small stripes or patterns (can create visual “buzzing”)
- Minimize jewelry that makes noise
- Test outfit on camera beforehand
- Have a blazer or cardigan nearby if needed
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What if I have technical issues during the interview?
Stay calm and professional. If you lose connection, try to rejoin immediately. If that fails, call or email the interviewer right away. Have their contact info ready. Apologize briefly and move on – tech issues happen to everyone, and your response shows how you handle problems.
Should I use notes during a video interview?
Yes, but discreetly. Have key points, questions to ask, and your resume nearby. Place them at eye level near your camera so you’re not obviously looking down. Don’t read from notes – use them as prompts only.
How do I handle interruptions (kids, pets, noise)?
Minimize risk by informing household members, choosing a quiet space, and closing doors. If an interruption happens, mute yourself, apologize briefly, handle it, and continue. Don’t over-apologize – interviewers understand work-from-home realities.
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