Tech Considerations
- Use headphones, if possible, preferably with a built-in microphone. Using computer speakers without headphones can cause an echo.
- Familiarize yourself with the video conferencing platform that you will use for your interview. If you’re already familiar with the platform, be sure to open the application ahead of time and check for software updates so you don’t run into any problems the day of the interview.
- Set aside a few minutes before your scheduled interview time to test your microphone and video. Most video conferencing applications offer microphone tests. For video tests, consider using your laptop’s camera application to check the lighting and your appearance before joining the interview call.
- Using a laptop or tablet for the video interview will allow your phone to remain free in the chance you might run into audio issues. You can then use your phone to call the interviewer and continue the conversation by phone while on camera. You can also use the chat function to communicate with the interviewer.
- Prepare a back-up plan in case of Wi-Fi disruptions. While outages are rare, preparing ahead of time can reduce last-minute scrambling on the off chance that you encounter any issues with home internet connectivity. Consider setting up your phone’s personal hotspot as an alternative in case you lose your regular Wi-Fi connection.
Preparing Your Interview Space
- Choose a quiet, private space with a strong internet signal.
- Remember to lock the door to reduce the risk of interruption by family, roommates, or pets. Consider placing a sign on the door as a reminder for other members of your household.
- Be mindful of the background. Your interview background is an excellent opportunity to communicate who you are. At a minimum, it should appear clean, tidy, and work appropriate. If possible, avoid a view of your kitchen or bedroom, as this can be distracting. Bookshelves, educational degrees, family photos, plants, and natural lighting in your background can all help to convey a positive first impression.
Make a Strong First Impression
- Choose an outfit that you feel confident in, and dress exactly how you would during an in-person interview. Wearing a strong professional outfit can help shift your mindset into the right mode. Feeling confident is a critical psychological factor in interview success. Wear a full outfit. Some of our candidates have had to stand up to grab dropped items, and it is easy to imagine a camera accidentally tilting and showing more than the shoulders up.
- Minimize distractions. Turn off notifications on your computer. Place your phone in airplane mode to avoid an email or missed call notification interrupting your train of thought during the interview.
- Raise your camera. Consider using a stand or setting your camera on top of some boxes or books to create a more flattering camera angle. Ideally, your body should be positioned in the center of frame, with the top of your head at the top of the frame and the middle of your chest at the bottom
- Consider your lighting. Facing natural light sources is ideal, while sitting with your back towards a window can create a dark silhouette. You can also adjust the brightness of your laptop screen and play around with different combinations of lighting and angles ahead of time to figure out what helps you feel most confident.
- Maintain eye contact, and practice looking into your video camera when you speak.