10 Tips for Acing Your Video Interview

With more people than ever working from home, video interviews have become increasingly common and are likely to remain so for years to come. Interviewing effectively on camera requires careful preparation, so here are a few tips.

1. Camera Position

   Make sure your camera is positioned close to eye level and sit within 36 inches of your device. Use a headset if you have one.

2. Lighting

   Your face should be clearly lit but not washed out. Natural light is best, but if it’s not an option, a ring light can help. If your face looks washed out, try reducing your screen brightness.

3. Check Your Tech

   Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection in advance.

4. Background

   Set up where you’ll have an uncluttered, professional background that’s free from visual distractions. Avoid using the green screen and virtual backgrounds.

5. Test drive

   Test the link you’ve been provided and familiarize yourself with the on-screen controls, especially how to mute and unmute the audio.

6. Practice. Then practice more

   Don’t underestimate the importance of taking time to practice ahead of the interview. Getting feedback from friends and family can really help.

7. Dress professionally

   Research the company culture before the interview so you have a good idea of what’s appropriate. Dress from head-to-toe just as if you’re having an in-office interview; you never know when you’ll have to stand up to deal with an interruption. To look your best on camera, avoid bright colors and patterns and opt for softer colors. If you’re wearing a tie, wear a solid color rather than a patterned one. If you wear glasses, adjust the room lighting screen brightness to reduce glare from the lenses or remove them altogether.

8. Eye contact

   Eye contact on a video interview is just as important as during an in-person interview. Avoid looking directly at your interviewer on the screen while you’re answering a question. Instead, direct your gaze at the webcam. When you do this, your eyes are more likely to align with the interviewer’s. When you’re listening, you can look back at the screen.

9. Body language

   Sit with your back straight, shoulders open, and feet planted on the floor. Rest your arms in your lap or on the desk. When listening, nod and smile when appropriate to communicate that the interviewer has your full attention. Use hand gestures when it feels appropriate and keep your movements close to your body. Avoid fidgeting or letting your gaze drift away from your device.

10. If something goes wrong

    With technology, there’s always a chance that things could go wrong. Here are some backup plans to have ready just in case:

• If your video or audio stops working: Before the interview, ask the interviewer for a phone number where you can reach them if you experience technical difficulties.

• If another person or pet enters the room unexpectedly: Apologize, ask for a few moments, mute your microphone and turn off your camera, and the interruption. Make sure that the room is secure before restarting the interview.