How to Prepare for a Video Interview

Video interviews are now standard for a first-round conversation, and a few technical and presentation details matter more than they would in person.

Test your setup the day before

• Camera, microphone, and internet connection
• Lighting — face a window or lamp, not a bright light behind you
• The exact link and login details

Choose a plain, tidy background

A blank wall or tidy bookshelf keeps the focus on you.

Look at the camera, not the screen

It feels unnatural at first, but it reads as eye contact to the interviewer.

Dress fully, not just on top

Video calls end up needing to stand occasionally — dress as if it's in person.

Have a backup plan

Know a phone number to call in case the video link fails.