Video Interview Tips: How to Succeed in Online Interviews
Video interviews have become a standard part of the hiring process. While the interview questions may be similar to those in face-to-face interviews, your technology, environment, and on-camera communication also influence the impression you make. A little preparation can help you appear more confident and professional.
Quick Answer
A successful video interview requires more than preparing answers. Test your equipment, choose a quiet and well-lit location, dress professionally, maintain eye contact with the camera, and minimize distractions so the interviewer can focus on your qualifications.
In This Guide
Why Companies Use Video Interviews
Video interviews allow employers to:
● Interview remote candidates
● Reduce travel costs
● Schedule interviews more efficiently
● Evaluate communication skills
● Move candidates through the hiring process faster
Many organizations now use video interviews as either the first or second interview stage.
Preparing Your Technology
Technical issues can distract from an otherwise strong interview.
Before the interview:
● Test your internet connection
● Charge your laptop
● Check your camera
● Test your microphone
● Update your meeting software
● Close unnecessary applications
● Restart your computer if needed
Joining the meeting five to ten minutes early can help identify unexpected problems.
Setting Up Your Environment
Choose a Quiet Location
Find a place where you won't be interrupted. Turn off notifications and let others know you'll be unavailable during the interview.
Improve Your Lighting
Natural light is ideal. If that's not available, place a light source in front of you rather than behind you. Avoid sitting with a bright window directly behind you.
Keep Your Background Professional
A simple, uncluttered background works best. If your platform supports background blur, it can help reduce distractions without looking artificial.
Position Your Camera
Place the camera at eye level. Looking directly into the camera occasionally creates better eye contact than constantly looking at your own image.
During the Interview
Dress Professionally
Dress as you would for an in-person interview unless instructed otherwise. Professional clothing helps create the right impression and can improve your confidence.
Communicate Clearly
Speak at a natural pace. Pause briefly after the interviewer finishes speaking to avoid talking over them if there's a slight internet delay.
Maintain Positive Body Language
Remember to sit upright, smile naturally, nod when appropriate, avoid excessive movement, and keep your hands visible when helpful. Body language still matters in virtual interviews.
Keep Notes Nearby
Having brief notes is acceptable. However, avoid reading directly from a script, as it can make your answers sound unnatural.
After the Interview
Once the interview ends:
● Thank the interviewer
● Review your notes
● Record any questions you were asked
● Send a follow-up or thank-you email if appropriate
● Reflect on areas you can improve before your next interview
Video Interview Checklist
Before Joining
✓ Test your camera
✓ Test your microphone
✓ Check your internet connection
✓ Close unnecessary programs
✓ Silence your phone
✓ Prepare your resume
✓ Open the meeting link early
✓ Keep a glass of water nearby
Common Mistakes
Avoid:
● Joining the meeting late
● Poor lighting
● Noisy surroundings
● Looking only at your own video
● Reading scripted answers
● Interrupting because of connection delays
● Forgetting to mute notifications
Best Practices
● Test your equipment the day before
● Dress professionally
● Keep your background simple
● Maintain eye contact with the camera
● Speak clearly and confidently
● Prepare examples using the STAR Method
● Follow up professionally after the interview
Be Ready Before Your Next Video Interview
A successful interview starts with a strong application. Resumee helps you create an ATS-friendly resume, tailor it to the job description, organize your achievements into measurable bullet points, and generate a matching cover letter so you're prepared before the interview even begins.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I look at the interviewer or the camera?
When speaking, look at the camera periodically to simulate eye contact. When listening, it's natural to look at the interviewer's image.
Is it acceptable to use notes?
Yes. Brief notes are helpful, but avoid reading from a script.
What should I do if my internet disconnects?
Reconnect as quickly as possible. If you're unable to rejoin, contact the interviewer using the phone number or email they provided.
Can I use a virtual background?
A clean, real background is usually preferable. If necessary, a subtle background blur is generally less distracting than an artificial virtual background.
How early should I join the meeting?
Joining five to ten minutes before the scheduled time gives you an opportunity to resolve any technical issues before the interview begins.