Video interviews are now a standard part of hiring. These virtual interview tips will help you look polished and confident on Zoom, Microsoft Teams or Google Meet.
Tech setup
- Test the platform the day before and install updates.
- Use a stable internet connection — plug in with Ethernet if possible.
- Charge your laptop and keep the charger plugged in.
- Use headphones with a mic for clearer audio.
- Close other apps and notifications.
- Have the interviewer’s phone number as a backup.
Camera and lighting
- Put the camera at eye level — stack books under your laptop.
- Face a window or lamp so light is in front of you.
- Frame yourself from mid-chest up with a little space above your head.
- Choose a clean, simple background or a subtle blur.
Presence and body language
- Look at the camera when speaking, not your own image.
- Smile and nod to show engagement.
- Sit up straight and keep your hands visible occasionally.
- Pause briefly before answering to avoid talking over lag.
- Dress professionally from head to toe.
Preparation
- Keep notes nearby — but don’t read from them.
- Have water within reach.
- Log in 5 minutes early.
- Prepare questions for the interviewer (ideas).
Handling glitches
- Stay calm. If the connection drops, rejoin and say, “Sorry about that — where were we?” Everyone has experienced tech issues.
One-way recorded interviews
Some employers use recorded video interviews. Treat them like live interviews: practice with a timer, look at the camera, and use the STAR method for behavioral prompts.
Virtual interview checklist
- Platform tested and updated
- Camera at eye level, light in front of you
- Clean background
- Headphones and microphone working
- Notifications off, phone silenced
- Resume, job description and questions nearby
- Water within reach
- Logged in five minutes early
How to build rapport on video
Smile at the start, use the interviewer’s name, show active listening with nods, and keep answers slightly shorter than you would in person. Video makes long monologues feel longer, so aim for crisp, structured responses.
Virtual interview tips: key takeaways
Here is a quick recap of virtual interview tips to save or share:
- These virtual interview tips start with testing your tech the day before.
- Put the camera at eye level and light in front of you.
- Look at the camera when speaking.
- Stay calm if the connection drops.
For official labor-market data and more career research, see the CareerOneStop interview and job search resources and U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. Ready to put this into practice? Make sure your resume matches every job you apply for with the HiReXL ATS Resume Optimizer.
Frequently asked questions
How do I prepare for a virtual interview?
Test your technology, set up good lighting and an eye-level camera, choose a clean background, dress professionally and practice your answers.
Where should I look during a video interview?
Look at the camera when speaking to create eye contact, and glance at the screen when listening.
What should I do if my internet drops during a video interview?
Rejoin as quickly as possible, briefly apologize and continue. Have the interviewer's phone number as a backup.
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