The shift to remote hiring has made video interviews a standard part of the recruitment process. Whether you're interviewing via Zoom, Teams, or Google Meet, mastering this format can make the difference between landing your dream role and missing out.
Setting Up for Success
Before your interview even begins, your environment sets the tone. Here's what matters:
Lighting
Natural light is your best friend. Position yourself facing a window if possible. Avoid backlighting which turns you into a silhouette. If natural light isn't available, invest in a simple ring light or desk lamp positioned in front of you.
Background
Keep it clean and professional. A plain wall, tidy bookshelf, or home office setup works well. Avoid busy patterns, unmade beds, or anything that might distract the interviewer. Many platforms offer virtual backgrounds, but use these sparingly as they can appear glitchy.
Camera Position
Your camera should be at eye level. Stack books under your laptop if needed. Looking down at a screen positioned on your lap creates an unflattering angle and makes you appear disengaged.
Audio Quality
Test your microphone beforehand. Built-in laptop mics often pick up background noise. If you're in a noisy environment, consider using headphones with a built-in microphone. Close windows, silence notifications, and let household members know you'll be unavailable.
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Technical Preparation
Technical failures are the number one cause of video interview stress. Eliminate them with preparation:
- Test your internet connection - use an ethernet cable if WiFi is unreliable
- Update your video software the day before, not minutes before
- Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications to free up bandwidth
- Have a backup plan - know the interviewer's phone number in case of connection issues
- Charge your device or keep it plugged in
During the Interview
Eye Contact
This is where many candidates struggle. Look at your camera, not at the interviewer's face on screen. It feels unnatural, but it creates the impression of direct eye contact for them. Practice this beforehand.
Body Language
Sit up straight and lean slightly forward to show engagement. Keep your hands visible - rest them on your desk or gesture naturally. Avoid touching your face or fidgeting.
Pace Yourself
Video calls have a slight delay. Pause briefly before answering to ensure the interviewer has finished speaking. Speak clearly and slightly slower than you would in person.
Active Listening
Nod and provide verbal acknowledgments to show you're engaged. In a video format, these cues are more important as the interviewer can't read your full body language.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Looking at yourself: It's tempting to watch your own video feed. Minimise or hide your self-view to avoid distraction.
Reading from notes: While having notes nearby is fine, don't read directly from them. Interviewers can tell when your eyes are moving across text.
Overdressing from the waist up only: You might need to stand unexpectedly. Wear appropriate clothing top to bottom.
Ignoring the platform features: Familiarise yourself with screen sharing, chat functions, and reactions. You might need them during a presentation or assessment.
Making a Strong Impression
End strong by summarising your interest in the role and asking thoughtful questions. A video interview is still an interview - enthusiasm and preparation matter just as much as they would in person.
Ready to put these skills to work? Browse the latest opportunities on OHUB and start applying with confidence.
