May 17, 2024

How to Perform Your Best in a Video Interview

by Our content team
Nicky Lloyd / © GettyImages
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Welcome to Mind Tools' Video Learning Series from Emerald Works.

With virtual working now embedded in our lives, it's becoming commonplace for organizations to recruit using video interviews. These can take the form of a one-on-one video chat, a panel interview, or a pre-recorded session.

Just like an in-person interview, you'll need to think about and prepare for common questions. But there are some more specific things that you can do to ace your video interview.

First, check your tech. If you're asked to use a particular video chat app, install and test it well ahead of time. Experiment to get your camera and microphone settings just right. And do everything you can to improve your data connection. Close down unused apps, tabs or windows, for example.

Next, practice, practice, practice! Record yourself answering questions that you think will come up. Better still, ask a friend to role-play the interview with you, using as much of the same technology as possible.

Don't forget to set the scene. Use a place where you won't be disturbed, with a background that's tidy and professional.

And always dress to impress. Wear the same sort of outfit you'd choose if you were interviewing in-person. But avoid bright colors or busy patterns, as these can be distracting on screen.

Now that you're fully prepared, think about how you'll handle the video interview itself:

Rule number one – always be punctual.

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