Once a novelty reserved for long-distance candidates, video interviewing has become our new normal. In fact, video interviewing is now so ubiquitous that it takes more than a quiet environment, working webcam, and professional clothing to stand out from the crowd.

Below are five in-depth video interview tips, so you can make a lasting – and technical difficulty-free – impression to prospective employers.

 

1. Dress Up…and Down

Interviewing from the comfort of your home doesn’t preclude you from appropriate attire. Ditto for dressing from the waist down, despite being invisible to your interviewer. 

While suit-jackets, button-down shirts, blouses, and dress pants are timeless fail-safes for in-person interviews, video interview attire requires good color sense, as cameras register colors differently from the human eye. For best, most eye-catching and complementary results, wear rich, solid colors, pastels, and off-white tones, such as eggshell and ivory. Avoid solid white, black, red, and intricate patterns (such as plaid, houndstooth, and paisley), as they wash out and overload your image.

 

2. Test Your Tech

Don’t let software updates and microphone feedback catch you off guard during your interview.

One day before your interview date, preempt technical difficulties with a testing checklist:

• Web meeting software. Complete any updates and downloads. If interviewing on a new platform, familiarize yourself with its interface.

• Microphone and speakers. Test your microphone input and sound output through a test video call. For the best sound experience, opt for a headset.

• Webcam. Ensure your webcam displays a clear picture. In case you need to turn it off during your interview, make sure it’s responsive as well.

• Computer. Complete any updates and ensure its battery is fully charged. During your interview, prevent lag by closing programs and excess browser windows.

• Wi-Fi. Test your internet connection for stability and security.

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3. Set the Stage

Video interviews are a double-edged sword – while you have full control over your environment, your environment could sabotage your interview.

Create a positive impression with the below recommendations:

• Noise. Ensure your environment is free from human, animal, or machinery (such as appliance and air conditioning hum) chatter. Reduce echo by performing your interview in a room with a low ceiling and sheetrock walls.

• Light. Create flattering lighting and reduce glare by positioning light sources (windows, lamps, etc.) behind your camera. Avoid positioning your camera in front of your light source.

• Distraction. Perform your interview before a neutral, uncluttered background. Keep any pets or family members in a separate room. Postpone any deliveries or visitations until after your interview.

• Picture. Clean your webcam lens with a rubbing alcohol-soaked cloth. 

 

4. Break a Leg

Never neglect the you element in video interviews, especially since your interviewers will have less nonverbal communication cues to go by. Besides speaking with a clear, even cadence, convey openness and confidence with the below tips:

• Create direct eye contact by looking at the camera lens, not the computer screen.

• If using notes, position them in front of you. To prevent over-reliance on notes, rehearse your answers before the interview.

• Remember that digital connections sometimes create lag; after the interviewer finishes their question, pause for a few seconds before replying.

• Convey engagement by periodically nodding your head as your interviewer speaks; avoid verbalizations, such as “yes” or “uh-huh”, as they could override the interviewer’s speech output.

• Sit with upright posture and relaxed shoulders.

 

5. Know Your Angles

Webcams have a nasty habit of washing out and distorting your features. Put your best face forward with interview and camera-friendly makeup and filming tricks:

• If you wear makeup, opt for a clean, clear complexion and eyes with subtle cheek color. Use a lightweight foundation and concealer to even out your skin tone and cover blemishes. Eliminate shine with powder. Bring definition to the eyes with a wash of neutral eyeshadow and mascara. Bring life to the face with blush; pink, red, and berry tones work best.

• Glasses-wearers, reduce eye-contact-disrupting glare by moving your light source slightly to the side.