Mastering Video Interviews: A Comprehensive Preparation Guide
A job seeker participates in a video interview from a home office setting, exemplifying the modern remote interview experience.
Video interviews have become a mainstay in today’s hiring landscape, not just a pandemic-era stopgap. In fact, over 80% of recruiters now use video interviews as part of their hiring process, making them a baseline expectation for candidates. Employers value video interviews for their efficiency – studies show they speed up hiring, widen the talent pool, and cut costs without compromising hiring quality. For job seekers, this means you are very likely to encounter a video interview at some stage of your career journey. This comprehensive guide will help you understand what video interviews are, why they matter, and how to excel in them. We’ll cover everything from technical setup and best practices to handling tricky situations, so you can approach your next video interview with confidence.
What Are Video Interviews and Why They Matter
A video interview is a job interview conducted remotely via video technology, allowing you and the interviewer to connect from different locations. This format rose to prominence during global shifts toward remote work and has proven its value long-term. Companies continue to rely on video interviews because of their convenience and effectiveness – nearly three-quarters of recruiters report that video interviews make it easier to shortlist candidates. They eliminate the need for travel, enable faster scheduling, and can even be recorded for later review by hiring teams. In 2025 and beyond, video interviews are here to stay, with 93% of companies that use them planning to keep doing so going forward.
For candidates, the importance of video interviews is clear: this medium offers flexibility (you can interview from anywhere) and can reduce time off work for interviews. It also levels the field by allowing employers to consider talent globally. However, video interviews introduce unique challenges – from technology glitches to the lack of in-person rapport – which is why thorough preparation is crucial. Succeeding in a video interview requires combining traditional interview skills with some new technical and communication strategies tailored to the virtual format.
Types of Video Interviews: Live vs. Asynchronous
Video interviews generally come in two formats: live (synchronous) interviews and asynchronous (one-way or pre-recorded) interviews.
Live Video Interviews (Real-Time)
Live video interviews are essentially a face-to-face conversation conducted over a video call in real time. Both you and the interviewer are present simultaneously, interacting via a platform such as Zoom or Microsoft Teams. Because it’s a two-way exchange, a live video interview closely mirrors an in-person interview. You can engage in natural dialogue, ask and answer questions on the spot, and build rapport through immediate feedback. Interviewers often favor live video when they want a more personal interaction but cannot meet in person.
From a candidate’s perspective, treat a live video interview exactly as you would an in-office meeting. Be punctual (log in a few minutes early), dress professionally, and be ready for back-and-forth discussion. One advantage of live video is that the interviewer can probe deeper with follow-ups in real time, and you can clarify questions or ask your own. The flip side is that technical issues or distractions can interrupt the flow, so being technically prepared (which we’ll cover later) is vital. Remember that professionalism is on full display – many live video interviews are even recorded and could be reviewed by others later, so conduct yourself with the same seriousness as an in-person interview.
One-Way (Asynchronous) Video Interviews
Asynchronous video interviews – also known as one-way or pre-recorded interviews – do not have an interviewer present live. Instead, you record your answers to a set of predetermined questions for the employer to watch later. Typically, you’ll receive a link to an interview platform (for example, HireVue or a similar system) with either written prompts or prerecorded video questions. You then record your responses via your webcam, and your videos are saved for the hiring team’s review.
Illustration of an asynchronous video interview platform, where candidates record responses on their own time for the employer to review later.
One-way interviews offer flexibility – you can complete the interview on your own time (before a given deadline) and from a comfortable environment. This can be helpful if scheduling a live meeting is difficult. However, the format can feel unnatural to many candidates. Speaking into a camera with no live feedback means you can’t gauge an interviewer’s reactions or ask clarifying questions. It’s essentially a monologue, which some people find challenging (especially if you’re not interviewing in your first language). To succeed in an asynchronous interview, preparation is key. Imagine you’re having a real conversation – maintain a personable tone and look at the camera as if it were the interviewer. Many platforms provide practice questions or allow multiple takes; take advantage of these features to get comfortable. Be mindful of any time limits or retake limits on answers, which the platform should indicate upfront. Despite their challenges, asynchronous interviews are increasingly common. They ensure each candidate answers the same questions under the same conditions, which employers appreciate for consistency and fairness. If you encounter a one-way interview, don’t be discouraged – see it as a chance to deliver your best responses with a bit of extra preparation. We’ll provide more tips on handling these later on (see Answering Questions Effectively).
Common Platforms for Video Interviews
Video interview platforms come in two main categories: general video meeting tools and specialized interview software. As a candidate, it’s useful to familiarize yourself with the platform your interview will use.
- General Video Conferencing Tools: Many live interviews use popular meeting apps like Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or sometimes Skype. These platforms enable real-time video calls with features like screen sharing or chat. Employers favor them for ease of use – you might simply receive a Zoom or Teams link to join at the scheduled time. Ensure you have the necessary app installed or updated, and if you’re using a personal account, make sure your username and profile image are professional (e.g., your name, not a nickname).
- Specialized Interview Platforms: For one-way interviews (and some live interviews), companies often use dedicated platforms such as Mycvcreator, HireVue, Spark Hire, VidCruiter, myInterview, or InterviewStream. These tools are designed for hiring – for example, HireVue is an AI-powered platform that supports on-demand video interviews and assessments, used by hundreds of organizations worldwide. Such platforms may integrate timers, allow multiple takes, or even use AI to evaluate your recorded responses. If you’re invited to an interview on a platform you haven’t used before, don’t worry: employers will typically provide instructions. It’s a good idea to visit the platform’s website or help center for candidate FAQs. Many of these tools offer a quick tech check or practice session for candidates before you begin the real interview. Use those features to get comfortable with the interface.
Tip: No matter the platform, do a trial run. If it’s Zoom or Teams, you can start a test meeting to see how your video and audio look. If it’s a one-way interview tool, see if practice mode is available. Familiarizing yourself with the platform will reduce surprises on interview day.
Preparing for a Video Interview (Before the Interview)
Proper preparation is the foundation of a successful video interview. You need to consider all the usual interview prep (researching the company, reviewing common questions, knowing your resume) plus additional steps for the virtual format. Use the following checklist to get ready:
- Technical Setup: Several days before the interview, test all your equipment and software. Ensure you have a stable internet connection, and that your computer’s microphone and webcam are working well. It’s wise to perform a test call – for example, video call a friend or use a platform’s test feature – to check sound and picture quality. Close unnecessary apps on your device to free up processing power and prevent notifications from popping up. If using a browser-based tool, use a compatible, up-to-date browser (Chrome or Firefox are often recommended). Update the video conferencing app if applicable, so you’re not prompted to install updates right before the interview. Remember, a technical failure can cost you the opportunity; in fact, about 70% of candidates have lost a job opportunity due to technical issues during a video interview. Don’t let that be you – double-check your tech in advance.
- Environment (Lighting and Background): Choose a quiet, well-lit, and distraction-free space for the interview. Light should come from in front of you (facing your face) rather than behind – for instance, sit facing a window or lamp so your face is clearly illuminated without harsh shadows. A neutral, tidy background works best (a plain wall or a simple bookshelf is great). Remove any clutter or personal items that might distract the interviewer. If you can’t find a neat backdrop, some platforms allow virtual backgrounds – use a subtle, professional-looking image if needed, but ensure it doesn’t glitch around your hair or move when you do. Let anyone else at home know when and where you’ll be interviewing so you’re not interrupted. And silence your phone (and any smart device alerts) before you begin.
- Appearance and Attire: Dress professionally from head to toe, just as you would for an in-person interview. This means wearing the kind of outfit that would be appropriate in the employer’s office setting – when in doubt, business casual or slightly more formal. Dressing well not only impresses the interviewer but also puts you in the right mindset. Avoid overly bright colors or busy patterns on camera; softer solid colors tend to look better on video. (For example, a solid blue or soft pastel shirt is preferable to loud stripes or all-white, which can glare.) If you wear glasses, adjust your lighting to minimize glare on the lenses. Check your framing: the camera should show you from about the mid-chest or waist up, with a little space above your head. Position your webcam at eye level or slightly above – you might need to elevate your laptop on books – so that you’re not tilting your head awkwardly up or down. Good framing and posture (sitting up straight, shoulders open) will convey confidence and make eye contact easier.
- Content Preparation: Treat a video interview like any other interview when it comes to content. Research the company and role thoroughly so you can speak to why you’re a good fit. Be ready to discuss your experience and to answer common questions (like behavioral questions, technical questions, etc.). It’s smart to prepare a few STAR stories – i.e., Situation, Task, Action, Result – to answer behavioral questions with clear examples. The virtual format may shorten some interviews, so practice giving concise, focused answers that still highlight your achievements. For situational or technical questions, practice thinking aloud in a structured way, since the interviewer can’t “see” your thought process unless you articulate it. You can keep a notepad nearby with a few key points or questions you want to ask, but avoid over-relying on notes. If you need to glance at notes, do it briefly and mention to the interviewer that you may take quick notes or refer to your notebook, so they understand any momentary drop in eye contact.
- Practice and Mock Interviews: One of the best ways to reduce anxiety and improve performance is to practice on video beforehand. If possible, do a mock interview with a friend or mentor over Zoom/Teams – this helps simulate the real experience and lets you get feedback on your answers and body language. You can also record yourself using your webcam or smartphone; then watch the recording to observe your speaking speed, eye contact, and any nervous habits. Many career centers and online services offer mock interview platforms or AI tools to help you practice. For example, some universities provide access to tools like StandOut for video mock interviews – these platforms let you answer questions on camera and review your performance. Additionally, free AI-driven tools such as Google’s Interview Warmup can transcribe your practice answers and highlight frequently used words or patterns, which is great for refining your responses. However you choose to practice, simulate the interview conditions (dress up, sit at a desk, use your planned background) to build comfort with the setting. The more you practice, the more confident and polished you’ll feel when the real interview comes.
By covering these preparation steps – technology, environment, appearance, content, and practice – you’ll set yourself up for success. Preparation not only prevents mishaps but also boosts your confidence, which will come across to the interviewer.
During the Interview: Presentation and Etiquette
When the video interview begins, it’s show time. Your goals are to communicate effectively, build a connection with your interviewer, and demonstrate your fit for the role – all through the lens of a webcam. Keep these best practices in mind while you’re in the interview:
- Focus on Eye Contact: Eye contact is just as important in a virtual interview as in person. Resist the urge to look at your own image or the interviewer’s video on screen while speaking. Instead, look directly into your webcam when you answer questions. This creates the effect of eye contact on the interviewer’s side. When listening, you can look back at the screen to read the interviewer’s facial cues, but while talking, try to keep your gaze toward the camera. It might feel strange at first, but practice it – perhaps put a sticky note with an arrow next to your webcam as a reminder. Maintaining this “eye contact” will help you appear engaged and trustworthy.
- Body Language and Posture: Sit up straight in your chair, with your shoulders relaxed but back. Good posture in frame conveys attentiveness and confidence. Keep your hands mostly calm in your lap or use them naturally for gestures. It’s okay (even good) to gesture slightly with your hands when you speak, as it can convey enthusiasm – just keep movements within the video frame and avoid anything too distracting. Remember the camera likely captures your upper body, so avoid nervous fidgeting like bouncing your legs or swiveling in your chair, which can be noticeable and seem unprofessional. Nod and smile when appropriate to show you are actively listening and reacting to what the interviewer says. These non-verbal cues become especially important on video, where minor head nods or facial expressions replace some of the subtle body language of in-person meetings. Also, try not to lean too close to the camera; stay at a comfortable distance (so that your head and shoulders are fully visible in frame). If you naturally smile or laugh at times, don’t hold back – showing a bit of friendly personality helps build rapport, as long as your demeanor remains professional.
- Speaking and Tone: Speak clearly and at a moderate pace. Tech issues or audio lags can distort fast speech, so don’t rush. Enunciate your words and project your voice slightly more than you might in person, since microphones can sometimes muffle sound. However, avoid shouting; your tone should still be conversational and warm. It’s fine to take a brief pause before answering a question – this can prevent you from talking over the interviewer due to any slight transmission delay. Aim for a confident, upbeat tone of voice to convey enthusiasm for the role. Since the interviewers can’t feel your physical presence, your voice carries extra weight in conveying passion and professionalism. Varying your tone (to avoid sounding monotone) and using polite, positive language will make a strong impression.
- Engagement and Etiquette: Start the interview with a friendly greeting and a smile, just as you would if shaking hands in person. During the conversation, practice active listening – nod or give small verbal cues ("Mm-hmm," "Yes") to show you’re engaged. Be careful not to interrupt; if you begin to speak at the same time as the interviewer due to lag, stop and let them continue, then resume when they’ve finished. If you didn’t catch something, it’s perfectly okay to politely ask them to repeat the question or clarify (“I’m sorry, the sound dropped for a moment – would you mind repeating that?”). Keep your responses focused and on point; if you notice yourself rambling, you can wrap up by referring back to the question. In a video interview, brevity and clarity are appreciated since screen fatigue is real. Avoid distractions during the call – do not check your phone, look away to check email, or let your eyes wander too much. The interviewer will notice if you’re frequently glancing away, so stay mentally present. If you need a second to gather your thoughts, you can jot a quick note on your pad, but then return your attention to the camera.
- Showcase Enthusiasm and Confidence: Even though you’re not in the same room, you want your enthusiasm for the job to shine through the screen. Use facial expressions – like smiling when appropriate – to convey warmth. Let your passion come across in your voice as you talk about your experience and interest in the role. Also, remember to speak positively about past experiences and employers (no matter how tempting it might be to vent) – maintaining a professional, positive attitude is critical in any interview setting. Lastly, be confident in discussing your qualifications. Since the interviewer can’t pick up on as many non-verbal subtleties, you may need to state your points a bit more explicitly. Don’t shy away from highlighting your accomplishments and how they relate to the role.
By following these etiquette tips, you’ll present the best version of yourself on camera. A video interview may feel different, but the fundamental goal is the same as an in-person meeting: to engage in a meaningful conversation that convinces the employer you’re the right person for the job.
Handling Technical Difficulties and Unexpected Interruptions
No matter how well you prepare, sometimes life happens: the internet might act up, a loud truck might roll by, or your dog might burst into the room. How you handle these hiccups can itself demonstrate your professionalism and composure. Here are some guidelines for managing technical issues or interruptions during a video interview:
- Have a Backup Plan: Before the interview, ask your interviewer for a phone number or alternative contact in case the video call drops. This way, if your connection fails, you can quickly call or message them to stay in touch. Clarify if rescheduling is an option should serious tech problems arise, or if continuing by phone is acceptable. Knowing what to do in advance will keep you calm if something goes wrong.
- If Your Internet or Video Freezes: Stay calm and do not panic. If the video feed cuts out or your screen freezes, try to rejoin the meeting immediately. Often, simply closing and reopening the video app or browser can fix the issue. If you’re on a platform like Teams and get disconnected, you might also try dialing in by phone (many meeting invites include a phone audio option). Should a restart not work, use that phone number you got to call the interviewer. Explain briefly that you’re having technical difficulties and propose to continue by phone or reschedule if necessary. Interviewers will generally be understanding if a tech issue occurs, especially if you handle it professionally. The key is to communicate promptly – don’t disappear without explanation. A quick apology and a solution (like “I’ll dial in now” or “I’ll reboot and rejoin”) shows you’re proactive and courteous.
- If Unexpected Noise Occurs: Maybe there’s construction noise, a siren outside, or a neighbor’s dog starts barking. If a sudden noise is drowning out the conversation, apologize briefly and ask for a moment until the noise passes. You can mute your microphone while the disruption continues, then unmute and politely let the interviewer know it’s resolved. It’s better to pause than to try talking over a blaring noise where neither of you can hear. Interviewers appreciate when you acknowledge the distraction and handle it so the conversation can continue smoothly.
- If Someone Interrupts You (Family, Roommates, Pets): Despite best efforts, there’s always a chance someone might enter your room or a pet jumps on your lap. If this happens, don’t get flustered. Apologize to the interviewer and ask for a minute to handle the interruption, then mute your mic and turn off your camera. Address the situation – gently and quickly remove the pet or let the person know you’re in an interview – and make sure your space is secure (door closed, etc.) before returning. Once back, turn your camera/mic on and briefly say something like, “Thank you for understanding, I appreciate it. Where were we?” Most interviewers will be sympathetic (many are working from home too and have seen it all). The important part is showing grace under pressure – by staying polite and composed, you turn a potential negative into a moment of resilience. And of course, take steps to prevent reoccurrence (e.g., lock the door if possible).
- Keep Your Cool: Above all, remain calm and composed during any technical snafu or surprise interruption. If you become visibly upset or frustrated, it can be awkward and derail your performance. Take a deep breath, smile, and handle the issue as efficiently as you can. Interviewers often treat how you handle such moments as part of the assessment – it can demonstrate problem-solving, adaptability, and emotional intelligence. If a glitch was minor, you can even make a light, professional comment (“I suppose 2025 technology isn’t perfect yet – thank you for bearing with me”) to smoothly regain rapport. Then continue with the interview as normal.
By preparing a backup contact and remaining poised, you can navigate most technical difficulties without harm to your candidacy. Everyone understands that virtual meetings sometimes face hiccups. Your goal is to minimize their occurrence (through preparation) and deal with them maturely if they happen. This will reassure the interviewer that you can handle the tools of modern work and stay cool under pressure.
Tips for Answering Questions in a Virtual Setting
Answering interview questions over video is fundamentally similar to in-person, but there are a few nuances to keep in mind for virtual settings – especially for behavioral and situational questions, which often require giving detailed examples or explanations. Here’s how to tackle questions effectively in a video interview:
- Use the STAR Method for Behavioral Questions: Behavioral questions (e.g., “Tell me about a time you faced a conflict on a team”) are common in any interview. The STAR framework (Situation, Task, Action, Result) remains a tried-and-true method for structuring your answers on video. In a virtual interview, being structured is even more important because it’s harder for the interviewer to prompt you or dig in if your answer is unclear. Before your interview, prepare a few STAR stories from your past experiences that highlight skills relevant to the job. During the interview, when such a question comes up, take a second to recall the appropriate story, then deliver it following the STAR sequence. Keep your story concise and focused – aim for 2-3 minutes. Watch the interviewer’s body language on screen; if they seem lost or about to interject, consider wrapping up or asking if they need more detail.
- Adapt to One-Way Interview Questions: In an asynchronous one-way interview, you might face behavioral questions without an interviewer present. This can be daunting – essentially talking to yourself. To prepare, practice imagining the interviewer behind the camera. You might even place a friendly face photo or a mirror near your webcam to talk “to” someone. Read each question carefully (the prompt may be on screen or in a video), and pay attention to any time limit given for your response. The system may give you, say, 30 seconds to think and 2 minutes to answer – use that think time wisely. Jot a couple of keywords if allowed, then begin your answer confidently. Speak in a conversational tone, as if a person were listening live. Avoid sounding like you’re reading from a script. It’s acceptable to have bullet points off-camera, but your delivery should feel natural, not recited. Remember, many one-way platforms let you re-record at least once if you stumble badly – but often your first take, with genuine energy, is best. Trust your preparation and give it your best shot on the first go. If you absolutely blank or have a technical problem, use a second attempt if permitted. Otherwise, proceed as you would and finish your thought even if you feel it wasn’t perfect (overanalyzing on camera can lead to awkward pauses). Employers know the one-way format is tricky, so they won’t expect perfection – they’re looking for content of your answer and how you communicate under this format.
- Answering Situational and Technical Questions: For hypothetical questions like “How would you handle X situation?” or technical problems to solve, think aloud in an organized way. On video, silence feels more pronounced, so it helps to narrate your thought process briefly. For example, if asked how you’d improve a process, you might start by saying, “First, I’d evaluate the current steps to identify bottlenecks. For instance, in my last role… (give example). Then I would… (explain next steps)….” This approach shows the interviewer your analytical thinking. If it’s a complex question, it’s fine to ask for a moment to think. You can say, “Let me take a second to consider that,” and jot a couple of notes, then proceed. Clarity and structure are your friends: outline your answer (“There are two main factors I’d consider. First,… Second,…”) to keep yourself on track and make it easy for the interviewer to follow. If you get a multi-part question, note each part to ensure you address all of them. In a live video call, you can even ask, “Did that answer your question, or would you like more detail on any part?” to invite feedback, just as you might in person.
- Keep Responses Concise and Engaging: Attention spans on video can be shorter. While you should fully answer questions, be mindful not to ramble. Watch the little thumbnail of the interviewer – if they look impatient or confused, it’s a sign you might need to wrap up. Aim to keep most answers structured and to the point. Use an enthusiastic tone and vary your pitch to maintain interest. For example, emphasize key points: “...and that project taught me how important clear communication is,” (smile) “which I believe would help me in this role when collaborating with remote teams.” Such vocal emphasis and a bit of animation in your expression can bring your stories to life. Also, don’t forget to actually answer the question asked – it’s easy when nervous to go off on a tangent. If you catch yourself straying, gently steer back: “Coming back to your original question about handling tight deadlines, the main thing I’d do is prioritize tasks and communicate proactively, as I illustrated in that story.”
- Handling Follow-up Questions or Clarifications: In a live video interview, if the interviewer asks a follow-up or if you’re not sure you addressed their query, be ready to clarify. It’s perfectly fine to ask, “Did that answer your question, or would you like me to go into more detail on any part of that example?” This shows attentiveness. In a one-way interview, obviously you can’t do this, so your initial answer has to stand on its own. Again, this is why structure is important – a clear, well-ordered answer is less likely to leave the reviewer with confusion. If you realize you missed something crucial while recording a one-way answer and you have another attempt, you can incorporate it into a second take. If not, don’t stress; just ensure your remaining answers are solid.
Finally, remember that practice makes perfect with virtual responses. If you’ve rehearsed answering out loud on camera (even if just recording yourself), you’ll be far more comfortable articulating your thoughts when it counts. Be yourself, be confident in your experiences, and let your qualifications and personality come through despite the screen between you and the interviewer.
After the Interview: Follow-Up Etiquette
Your work isn’t done when the video call ends or you submit that last recording. Proper post-interview follow-up can leave a strong final impression and reinforce your interest in the role. Here’s how to handle the after-interview stage:
- Thank the Interviewer and Exit Gracefully: At the conclusion of a live video interview, thank your interviewer(s) sincerely for their time. Smile and say you appreciated the opportunity to learn more about the role and the company. End the call only after the interviewer has said their goodbyes and disconnected, or when it’s clear the session is over. (Hanging up abruptly can be akin to walking out of a room without a goodbye.) If it’s a one-way interview with no live person, of course you won’t verbally thank anyone at the end of each recording – but some platforms might have a closing prompt where you can record a final statement. If so, a brief thanks and reiteration of interest could be appropriate there.
- Send a Prompt Thank-You Message: It’s good etiquette to send a follow-up thank-you email within 24 hours of your interview. This applies to both live and asynchronous interviews (for a one-way interview, you’d email whoever has been your point of contact, such as the recruiter or hiring manager who invited you). In the message, thank them for the opportunity to interview and mention something specific from the conversation or the questions. For example, “Thank you for the enjoyable conversation yesterday. I appreciated the chance to discuss the upcoming project launch – our discussion about marketing strategies was very insightful.” This shows the email isn’t a generic template and reminds them of your interview. Keep the tone professional and positive, and keep it concise (a few short paragraphs at most).
- Reiterate Your Interest and Fit: Use the follow-up note to reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role and briefly highlight why you believe you are a good fit. You might say, for instance, “Our conversation reinforced my excitement about the prospect of joining your team. I’m confident that my experience in X and skills in Y would allow me to contribute effectively, especially after hearing more about your current initiatives.” This is essentially a polite sales pitch for yourself, tied to what you learned in the interview. It helps the interviewer remember you favorably and shows you’re seriously interested (which can sometimes be a deciding factor).
- Address Any Missed Points (If Necessary): If there was a question you feel you could have answered better, or you forgot to mention an important detail, the follow-up email can tactfully address it. Be careful not to write an essay or appear overly fixated on a mistake. But a sentence like, “I realized after our call that I didn’t mention a relevant project: at my last job I led a similar effort in which we…, which I thought might be useful for you to know,” can add value if truly pertinent. Only do this for something significant that genuinely adds to your candidacy; minor flubs are better left alone.
- Inquire About Next Steps: It’s appropriate to close your message by politely asking about the next steps or stating you look forward to hearing about the outcome. For example, “I look forward to any updates on the hiring process. Please let me know if you need any additional information from me.” This signals that you remain interested and keeps the line of communication open. If the interviewer mentioned a timeline (e.g., “we’ll decide by next week”), respect that timeline; if it passes with no word, a gentle check-in email can be sent after a reasonable period.
- Stay Professional and Patient: After your thank-you note is sent, the waiting game begins. During this time, continue your job search and don’t stop at one opportunity. If you do receive further instructions (like another interview or an assignment), respond promptly and follow them carefully. If you don’t hear back by the expected date, a short follow-up inquiry can be sent, reiterating your interest and requesting an update. Always maintain a professional tone; companies sometimes take longer than expected, but they keep an eye on how you communicate throughout.
Following up might seem like a formality, but it can tip the scales in your favor. A courteous, timely thank-you email demonstrates professionalism and reminds the interviewer of your conversation while it’s still fresh in their mind. Many hiring managers appreciate this gesture, and some even expect it as part of good interview etiquette. By reinforcing your interest and highlighting your fit one more time, you leave a positive final impression.
Additional Resources for Video Interview Preparation
Preparing for a video interview can be overwhelming, especially if you’re new to the format or haven’t interviewed in a while. Fortunately, there are many resources and tools available to help you sharpen your skills and boost your confidence:
- Career Center Workshops and Coaching: If you’re a student or recent graduate, check if your school’s career center offers virtual interview workshops or one-on-one coaching. Many career centers now provide mock video interviews as a service. For example, some universities partner with platforms like StandOut or InterviewStream where you can simulate an interview and get feedback. Career coaches can also help you practice typical questions and improve your performance. Even if you’re not a student, some public libraries or community centers offer job search resources that might include interview practice sessions.
- Online Interview Practice Tools: There are dedicated online platforms where you can practice interviews at your own pace. One popular resource is Big Interview, an online training system that offers video lessons and a tool to practice answering questions via webcam. Another innovative tool is Google’s Interview Warmup, a free AI-based practice tool that lets you answer common interview questions and then provides feedback on your responses (identifying keywords you used, etc.). These tools provide a “safe” environment to get comfortable speaking on camera. Additionally, consider exploring AI interview coaches or apps (some newer AI-driven services will even analyze your video for things like filler words or body language, and suggest improvements). While no tool can exactly replicate a real interview, they can help you self-correct habits and become more confident in the virtual format.
- Webinars and Tutorials: Websites like LinkedIn Learning, Coursera, or even YouTube have tutorial videos on acing virtual interviews. These can offer fresh insights or tips from career experts. For instance, you might find short courses on “Building Virtual Presence” or “Answering Behavioral Questions in Video Interviews.” Watching a few of these can reinforce what you’ve learned here and perhaps introduce you to new strategies (like managing anxiety or improving video lighting) from different perspectives.
- Articles and Guides from Reputable Sources: Many career blogs and recruiting companies regularly publish up-to-date guides on video interview best practices. Reputable sources include Indeed Career Guide, Glassdoor Blog, LinkedIn’s career blog, and industry-specific career sites. These often contain checklists similar to what we’ve covered, plus firsthand stories or Q&As that can deepen your understanding. For example, Indeed’s own guide emphasizes finding a quiet space, good lighting, and logging in early – advice which aligns well with this article. Keeping an eye on such resources ensures you’re aware of current trends (like use of AI in interviews) and employer expectations.
- Practice with Friends or Peers: Sometimes the best resource is a fellow job seeker. Consider partnering with a friend or a peer who is also preparing for interviews. Conduct mock interviews for each other over video. This not only helps you practice but also lets you experience the interview from the interviewer’s perspective, which can be enlightening. You could even record each other (with permission) and then share feedback. This kind of mutual practice is free, builds confidence, and might even make the process fun.
- Equipment and Setup Guides: If you’re unsure about the technical side, look up basic guides on setting up your gear for video calls. For instance, blogs or videos about home office lighting on a budget, or how to position your webcam, can provide quick fixes that dramatically improve your video quality. You don’t need expensive equipment; often small tweaks (like using a desk lamp with a white shade, or propping your laptop on a stand) can upgrade your video presence. Many remote work or photography websites have simple tips for looking good on camera.
Leveraging these resources will supplement your preparation and ensure you’re ready for anything. In particular, practicing extensively – whether via tools or with people – is the best way to reduce interview nerves. The more familiar you become with talking on camera and using the technology, the more you can focus on showcasing your skills and personality when it’s time for the real interview.
Conclusion:
Video interviews may initially seem daunting, especially if you’re more accustomed to meeting face-to-face. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can turn video interviews into an opportunity to shine. Remember that hiring managers are rooting for you to succeed – they want to find the right candidate, and if you’ve been invited to a video interview, they already see potential in you. By understanding the platform, presenting yourself professionally, communicating effectively, and handling any curveballs with grace, you’ll leave a lasting positive impression. The modern job market is increasingly digital, and mastering video interviews is a powerful skill that will serve you throughout your career. Good luck with your interview – you’ve got this!