Video interviews are now a routine part of hiring. They bring their own challenges — technology, lighting, eye contact — but with a little preparation they can feel as natural as meeting in person.
Check your internet connection, camera, microphone and the platform the employer will use. Close unnecessary applications and keep a charger nearby.
Use the actual platform where possible and check how your name, audio, and camera appear. Make a short test call rather than relying only on the device settings. Keep the interview link and contact details accessible so you can communicate quickly if a technical issue prevents you from joining.
A tested video setup supports the conversation and a backup contact plan.
Check sound, camera, and connection.
Use short prompts rather than a script.
Know how to reconnect or contact the interviewer.
Sit facing a window or soft light source, with the camera at eye level. Choose a tidy, neutral background and minimise noise and interruptions.
Check the camera frame while seated as you will be during the conversation. Keep light in front of you, reduce distracting background activity, and position the screen comfortably. A simple space is enough. If you use a virtual background, test that it does not obscure your face or gestures.
Look at the camera when making key points, not only at the faces on screen. Nod, smile and pause slightly longer than usual to account for any delay.
Speak clearly and leave room for the other person to finish. Video delay can make normal pauses feel longer, so resist filling every silence. Glance at the screen to read the conversation naturally, then return to the lens for important points. If audio breaks up, ask for the question to be repeated.
Research the organisation, prepare examples that show your impact and have a few questions ready. Keep brief notes nearby, but avoid reading from them.
Keep a few prompts near the screen, not a script you need to read. Practise relevant examples and research the role just as you would for an in-person meeting. Plan what you will do if the connection drops: reconnect, contact the interviewer, and agree how to continue rather than disappearing without explanation.
Join at the last moment with an untested microphone and a full script open.
Test the platform, prepare brief example prompts, check lighting, and keep a reconnection contact available before the interview starts.
Preparation cannot remove every technical problem, but a calm recovery plan lets you focus more attention on the conversation.
Explore Interview CoachingA calm setup frees you to focus on what matters most: a clear, confident conversation.
