Video calls are now a standard part of hiring, from first screening calls to final-round interviews. A video interview might feel more relaxed than meeting in person, but it brings its own challenges: technology, lighting, eye contact and distractions at home. These 15 tips will help you prepare so you come across as confident and professional on screen.

Types of Video Interviews

  • Live video interviews – real-time conversations over Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet or similar.
  • One-way (recorded) interviews – you record answers to pre-set questions, often with a time limit, using platforms like HireVue.

Both require the same technical preparation, but one-way interviews need extra practice because there's no one to react to.

Tech Preparation

1. Test Your Equipment

A day before, test your camera, microphone, speakers and internet connection using the exact platform you'll use. Update the app and your browser.

2. Use a Stable Internet Connection

Connect with a cable if possible, close bandwidth-heavy apps and ask others at home not to stream video during your interview. Keep a phone hotspot ready as a backup. Our guide to fixing slow Wi-Fi can help.

3. Charge Your Device

Plug in your laptop to avoid battery problems. If using a phone, place it on a stable stand, never hand-held.

4. Improve Your Audio

Clear audio matters more than perfect video. Wired earphones with a microphone or a USB microphone usually sound better than built-in laptop mics.

Set the Scene

5. Choose a Quiet, Tidy Space

Pick a room where you won't be interrupted. Tidy anything visible in the background or use a plain wall. Avoid distracting virtual backgrounds unless your real background is unsuitable; if you use one, choose a simple blur.

6. Get the Lighting Right

Face a window or place a lamp behind your camera so light falls on your face. Avoid sitting with a bright window behind you, which turns you into a silhouette.

7. Position Your Camera at Eye Level

Raise your laptop on books or a stand so the camera is level with your eyes. Sit about an arm's length away, with your head and shoulders in the frame.

8. Remove Distractions

Silence your phone, close unnecessary tabs, turn off notifications and let people at home know you're in an interview. Put a note on the door if needed.

On-Camera Presence

9. Dress Professionally

Dress as you would for an in-person interview, from head to toe, in case you need to stand up. Solid colours usually look better on camera than busy patterns.

10. Look at the Camera

Looking at the camera, not the screen, creates the feeling of eye contact. Place a small sticky note near your webcam as a reminder, especially when answering important questions.

11. Mind Your Body Language

Sit upright, lean slightly forward, smile and nod to show you're listening. Keep hand gestures within the frame and avoid fidgeting.

12. Speak Clearly and Pause

Audio delays can cause people to talk over each other. Speak slightly slower than usual and pause briefly after the interviewer finishes speaking before you respond.

Content Preparation

13. Prepare Like Any Interview

Research the company, prepare examples using the STAR method and practise common questions. See our guides to job interview tips and answering "tell me about yourself".

14. Use Notes Carefully

One advantage of a video interview is that you can keep brief notes nearby. Use a few keywords on a sticky note beside the camera rather than reading scripts, which looks unnatural.

15. Practise on Camera

Record yourself answering questions or do a mock interview with a friend on the same platform. Watch the recording to check lighting, sound, eye contact and filler words.

Handling Technical Problems

Even with preparation, things can go wrong. Stay calm:

  • If your connection drops, rejoin quickly.
  • If video freezes, turn it off briefly and continue with audio.
  • Have the interviewer's phone number or email ready so you can contact them.
  • Say something simple like "Sorry, my connection dropped. Could you repeat the last question?"

Interviewers understand technical issues. How you handle them shows composure.

Tips for One-Way Video Interviews

  • Read instructions carefully and check how many attempts you get.
  • Use practice questions if the platform offers them.
  • Keep answers structured and within the time limit.
  • Smile and speak to the camera as if it's a person.
  • Don't rush. Take a moment to gather your thoughts before recording if allowed.

Video Interview Checklist

  • Platform tested and updated
  • Stable internet and backup hotspot
  • Laptop charged and plugged in
  • Good lighting on your face
  • Camera at eye level
  • Quiet, tidy background
  • Professional outfit
  • Notes and questions prepared
  • Phone silenced and notifications off
  • Logged in 5 minutes early

After the Interview

Send a thank-you email within 24 hours, mentioning something specific from the conversation and restating your interest. It's a simple step many candidates skip.

Final Thoughts

A video interview is still a real interview. Prepare your tech and space, practise speaking to the camera and bring the same research and examples you'd use in person. With the right setup and a calm approach, you can make just as strong an impression through a screen. For more remote career advice, visit our remote work section.