Video Interview Tips: Look Professional on Camera

Remote interviews are now standard. Here's how to nail them.

Setup Checklist

Tech

• [ ] Test camera, mic, and speakers 30 min before
• [ ] Use a wired internet connection if possible
• [ ] Close unnecessary apps and browser tabs
• [ ] Charge your device or plug in
• [ ] Have a backup device ready

Environment

• [ ] Clean, neutral background
• [ ] Good lighting (face a window or use a ring light)
• [ ] Camera at eye level
• [ ] Quiet room with door closed
• [ ] "Do not disturb" on phone

Appearance

• [ ] Dress fully (yes, pants too)
• [ ] Solid colors work best on camera
• [ ] Avoid busy patterns
• [ ] Minimize jewelry that catches light

During the Interview

Eye Contact

• Look at the camera, not the screen
• Place a small sticky note near your camera as a reminder

Body Language

• Sit up straight, slightly forward
• Use hand gestures naturally
• Nod to show engagement
• Smile genuinely

Audio

• Use headphones to avoid echo
• Mute when not speaking (in panel interviews)
• Speak slightly slower than normal
• Pause before answering

Common Video Interview Mistakes

1. Looking at yourself instead of the camera
2. Forgetting to unmute
3. Having notifications pop up
4. Bad lighting (backlit = silhouette)
5. Cluttered or distracting background
6. Not testing tech beforehand