Video interviews are now a standard part of the hiring process, making it essential to know how to present yourself professionally on screen. Whether you’re interviewing for a contract-to-hire, direct hire, or temporary role, your virtual presence matters just as much as your resume. Here’s how to make a strong impression and avoid common pitfalls.
Do: Test Your Tech in Advance
Technical issues can disrupt an interview and create a bad first impression. Before your interview:
- Check your internet connection – A stable connection prevents lag or dropped calls.
- Ensure your camera and microphone work – Test both with a friend or in your device’s settings.
- Familiarize yourself with the platform – Whether it’s Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or Google Meet, log in early and make sure you know where the mute button is.
Don’t: Leave It to the Last Minute
Scrambling to fix tech issues right before your interview can throw you off. Log in 10-15 minutes early to make sure everything runs smoothly.
Do: Choose a Professional, Distraction-Free Background
Your background should be clean, neutral, and free of clutter. If possible:
- Use a well-lit, quiet space – Natural light or a desk lamp works best.
- Remove distractions – A simple background keeps the focus on you.
- Use a virtual background only if necessary – And make sure it looks professional.
Don’t: Sit in a Dark or Noisy Room
Poor lighting can make it hard for the interviewer to see you, and background noise can be distracting. If you can’t control noise, use headphones with a built-in microphone to minimize disruptions.
Do: Dress Like You Would for an In-Person Interview
Even though you’re at home, professional attire still matters. Dress appropriately for the role you’re applying for—business casual or formal is best unless the company has specified otherwise.
Don’t: Assume Only Your Top Half Matters
Wearing sweatpants with a dress shirt might seem tempting, but if you need to stand up unexpectedly, it could be embarrassing. Dress professionally from head to toe to stay in the right mindset.
Do: Maintain Good Eye Contact and Body Language
Nonverbal communication plays a big role in how you’re perceived. Here’s how to engage effectively:
- Look at the camera, not the screen – This mimics real eye contact.
- Sit up straight and avoid slouching – Posture conveys confidence.
- Nod and smile naturally – Show engagement without overdoing it.
Don’t: Stare at Yourself
It’s easy to get distracted by your own video feed. If necessary, minimize your window so you’re focused on the conversation.
Do: Practice Answering Common Questions
Just like an in-person interview, preparation is key. Be ready to answer:
- “Tell me about yourself.”
- “Why are you interested in this role?”
- “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”
- “Can you walk me through your resume?”
Practicing out loud can help you sound more confident and polished.
Don’t: Overuse Notes
Having a few key points on a sticky note is fine, but reading from a script sounds unnatural. Instead, practice summarizing your key experiences so they feel conversational.
Do: Follow Up with a Thank-You Email
After your interview, send a thank-you email within 24 hours. Keep it brief but genuine, expressing gratitude for the opportunity and reinforcing your interest in the role.
Final Thoughts
A successful video interview isn’t just about answering questions—it’s about presenting yourself as a strong, professional candidate. At StaffSource, we help job seekers prepare for every stage of the hiring process, from resume reviews to interview coaching.
Contact us today at www.staffsource.com, or email us at info@staffsource.com to get started.
This article was written by our team with AI assistance for added insights.