Complete guide to technical setup, professional presence, and virtual etiquette. Excel in video interviews with expert strategies.
Test everything 30 minutes before your interview
What works and what to avoid for each aspect
Eye level, arm's length away, stable mount
Looking up/down, too close/far, shaky
Head and shoulders, space above head, centered
Too close, cut off at forehead, off-center
Clean, uncluttered, professional, minimal movement
Messy, distracting, bed visible, busy
Front-facing, soft, even on face, natural if possible
Backlit, harsh shadows, too dark, too bright
Clear, no echo, consistent volume, minimal background noise
Muffled, echoing, cutting out, background noise
Look at camera when speaking, screen when listening
Only looking at screen, reading notes, distracted
Body language and engagement strategies for video
When speaking, look at the camera lens, not the screen. This simulates eye contact.
Good posture shows engagement. Leaning in slightly demonstrates interest.
Use hand gestures as you normally would, but keep them in frame to maintain engagement.
Video calls have slight delays. Speak 10-15% slower than normal for clarity.
Cameras flatten emotions. Express 20% more energy than you think necessary.
Small movements are amplified on camera. Stay relatively still and composed.
Prevention strategies and backup plans
Use wired connection, close other apps, test speed beforehand
Have phone number ready, mobile hotspot available
Use external microphone, test levels, quiet environment
Have backup headset ready, phone as alternative
Close unnecessary apps, use wired internet, update software
Restart computer if needed, switch to phone audio
Install and test platform 30 minutes early, update software
Have interviewer's email/phone, alternative platform ready
Lock door, inform household, silence notifications
Acknowledge professionally, apologize briefly, continue
Follow this checklist for a stress-free setup
Optimize your settings for each video platform
Stack books or use a laptop stand to position camera at eye level
Sit facing a window or lamp for even, flattering lighting
Use ethernet cable instead of WiFi for stable connection
Use headset or earbuds with mic for clearer audio
When speaking, look at lens, not screen, for eye contact
Join meeting room early to troubleshoot any issues
Dress professionally from head to toe, ensure proper lighting on your face, use a clean background, position camera at eye level, and maintain good posture. Test your setup beforehand to ensure you look professional on camera. Frame yourself with head and shoulders visible, leaving space above your head.
Have backup plans ready: phone number to call, mobile hotspot for internet backup, and alternative device. If connection drops, immediately call or email the interviewer. Stay calm and professional. Most interviewers are understanding about technical issues if you handle them professionally.
Look at the camera when you're speaking to simulate eye contact with the interviewer. When listening, you can look at their image on screen. Position the video window close to your camera to minimize the difference. This takes practice but makes a significant difference in engagement.
Use front-facing lighting, ideally from a window or lamp positioned in front of you at face level. Avoid backlighting from windows behind you which creates silhouettes. Ring lights or desk lamps work well. Test your lighting beforehand and adjust until your face is evenly lit without harsh shadows.
Dress as you would for an in-person interview at that company. Solid colors work best on camera (avoid busy patterns, stripes, or all white/black). Dress professionally from head to toe in case you need to stand up. Test your outfit on camera beforehand to ensure it looks good.