How to Prepare for a Video Interview

Preparing for a video interview is similar to preparing for an in-person interview, but with a few key differences.

There are some unique aspects to consider for virtual interviews. Follow these tips to ensure you nail your next video interview:

1. Learn proper etiquette

First impressions are key for any interview.

Although video interviews aren’t that different from in-person interviews, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to etiquette:

• Look at the camera, not your screen. This is the equivalent of looking someone in the eye while speaking to them in person, so it’s the polite thing to do.
• Log in a few minutes early. This way, you avoid being late in case you need to adjust your camera or audio settings.
• Be aware of your body language. Sit up straight and avoid fidgeting to appear confident and engaged throughout the interview.
• Have your resume and cover letter ready. Keep your application documents open on your computer so you’re not wasting time searching for them in case the interviewer has a question about your application.

2. Test your equipment

Interviewers know that technical problems can occur during virtual interviews. WiFi that cuts out, delays in audio, or background noise can disrupt the conversation.

However, you should do everything you can to minimize the risk of a technical problem happening by testing your equipment before the interview. Check your internet connection, webcam, and microphone, and ensure the video conferencing software is up-to-date.

Additionally, try doing a practice run the day before the interview to help you feel more confident and avoid unnecessary distractions during the interview.

3. Pick out a professional outfit

Just because you’re doing an interview from the comfort of your own home doesn’t mean you should get too comfortable.

When it comes to outfits, the same rules apply as for regular interviews.

Business casual is always a safe bet, but even better is to research the company to find out what the work culture is like. Is it more formal? Or more on the relaxed side? Based on your findings, choose an outfit that matches the company vibe.

4. Minimize distractions

The risk of disruptions is higher during virtual interviews than in-person interviews in a controlled office environment, but there are steps you can take to minimize distractions.

1. Choose a quiet space with minimal background noise and let any family members or roommates know when and where you’ll be doing the interview.
2. Turn off notifications on your phone and computer.
3. Remove clutter from the area behind you visible on camera.
4. If you have pets, make sure they’re in a different room during the interview.

Making these preparations will help you stay focused during your interview as you won’t have to worry about unexpected interruptions.

5. Don’t read from a script

One of the benefits of virtual interviews is that you can keep notes on hand without them being too obvious — unless you’re constantly reading from the screen. Over-reliance on extensive notes can negatively affect the flow of the conversation.

To use notes effectively, you should:

• Stick to bullet points instead of full paragraphs
• Prepare answers to the most commonly asked interview questions beforehand
• Practice your elevator pitch (a brief summary of your background and why you’re a great fit for the role) in advance
• Practice active listening so you don’t miss anything and can ask the interviewer relevant questions based on your conversation

Being nervous before an interview, even a virtual one, is normal, and notes can help you feel more confident. Just make sure you’re using them for support, not as a lifeline.

6. Consider the lighting

It might seem like a small, insignificant detail, but having good lighting during a video interview is important. You don’t want to end up looking like a ghost or a movie villain on camera. The less distractions, including visual ones, the better.

Here are some lighting dos and don’ts:

Pre-recorded video interview tips

Pre-recorded interviews are a type of video interview where you’re asked to record and submit your interview answers instead of answering questions live. Unlike a traditional interview, there’s no interviewer present, it’s just you and your computer.

Have you been asked to submit a pre-recorded interview? Read these interview tips before you hit record:

• Be mindful of time limits – Some employers give you a set amount of time to answer the questions.
• Maintain eye contact with the camera – This will make your interview more engaging.
• Be concise – It’s easy to ramble when there’s no one there to stop you, but try to keep your answers brief and stick to the topic.
• Do a trial run – Record yourself responding to the interview questions and look over the footage to identify areas for improvement before submitting the final version.
• Avoid filler words and pauses – Words like “um” and “uh” make you appear less confident.
• Pay attention to your tone of voice –  Talking to a camera can be awkward, but make an effort not to use a monotonous voice.

Video interview checklist

Make sure you’re prepared for your interview by checking off each item on this list:

Frequently asked questions about video interviews

Here are answers to the most common questions we receive about video interviews:

How does a video interview work?

A video interview is a remote job interview conducted using video conferencing software, like Zoom or Google Meet. It’s similar to a regular in-person interview, with the exception that it takes place online.

The interviewer will send you an invite link in advance so you can join the meeting on the day of the interview. During the interview, they will ask you questions about your qualifications, skills, and work experience, just like any other interview.

How long does a video interview last?

A video interview generally lasts as long as an in-person interview would. This can vary depending on the employer and your industry, but set aside at least an hour for the interview.

If you’re in tech, an interview can last multiple hours, but the interviewer should let you know roughly what to expect.

What is a one-way video interview?

A one-way video interview is the same thing as a pre-recorded interview, also known as an asynchronous interview, where you’re requested to respond to a set of questions provided by the employer.

If you’re preparing for a one-way video interview, make sure to read the employer’s instructions carefully as they might vary. Some employers might ask you to stick to a specific time limit, for example.