Mastering the Art of Video Interviews

Virtual interviews have become a standard part of the hiring process, even as some companies return to in-person operations. Mastering this format requires both technical preparation and adapting traditional interview skills to the digital environment.

Perfect Your Technical Setup

Technical issues can derail your interview before it even begins:

• Test Your Equipment: Check your camera, microphone, and internet connection at least a day before
• Download Required Software: Install and test the specific platform (Zoom, Teams, etc.) in advance
• Have a Backup Plan: Keep your phone charged and ready in case of technical difficulties
• Position Your Camera: Place it at eye level so you're not looking down or up
• Check Your Lighting: Ensure your face is well-lit from the front, avoiding harsh shadows or backlighting

Create a Professional Environment

Your background communicates information about you:

• Choose a clean, uncluttered space
• Eliminate potential distractions and noise
• Inform household members about your interview timing
• Consider a simple virtual background if your space isn't ideal
• Ensure good acoustics (carpeted rooms reduce echo)

Dress Professionally

Dress as you would for an in-person interview at that company:

• Research the company culture to gauge appropriate attire
• Dress completely, not just from the waist up
• Avoid busy patterns that can create distracting visual effects on camera
• Choose colors that complement your skin tone and background

Master Video-Specific Body Language

Body language is different on video:

• Eye Contact: Look directly at the camera when speaking, not at your screen
• Posture: Sit up straight with feet planted on the floor
• Hand Gestures: Use them naturally but keep movements smaller and within frame
• Facial Expressions: Be slightly more expressive than normal, as video can flatten affect
• Nodding: Give visual cues that you're listening and engaged

Prepare Your Materials

Have these items ready and accessible:

• Copy of your resume and the job description
• Notes on key talking points (keep them brief and discreet)
• Questions for the interviewer
• Glass of water
• Pen and paper for notes

Practice With the Technology

Familiarity breeds confidence:

• Record yourself answering practice questions
• Review your recordings to improve your delivery and background
• Practice sharing your screen if you'll be giving a presentation
• Learn keyboard shortcuts for muting/unmuting

Minimize Distractions

Create a focused environment:

• Close unnecessary browser tabs and applications
• Silence phone and computer notifications
• Use headphones to improve audio quality and reduce echo
• Have a "Do Not Disturb" sign if needed

Adapt Your Communication Style

Video requires some adjustments:

• Speak clearly and slightly slower than usual
• Pause briefly after the interviewer speaks to avoid talking over them
• Be concise—rambling is even more noticeable on video
• Maintain energy throughout the call

Follow Up Appropriately

The post-interview process remains important:

• Send a thank-you email within 24 hours
• Reference specific conversation points from the interview
• Clarify anything you feel you didn't explain well
• Reiterate your interest in the position

Use Careerday's Virtual Interview Simulator

Perfect your video interview skills with Careerday's cutting-edge AI interview simulator. Our platform analyzes your verbal responses, facial expressions, tone, and even background setup to provide actionable feedback. Practice industry-specific questions with our AI interviewer that adapts based on your responses, just like a real conversation. The system provides instant feedback on factors like eye contact, speaking pace, filler word usage, and answer content, helping you refine your technique before the actual interview. With Careerday, you can walk into any virtual interview with the confidence that comes from thorough, personalized preparation.