10 Proven Video Interview Preparation Tips for Guaranteed Success

Are you the one who attends video interviews without proper preparation? You wake up, get dressed, and log in for the virtual interview without any clue about what to expect? 

If so, there’s a high chance the recruiter might reject you, even if you have all the necessary skills. It’s clear that video interviews can feel different from in-person interviews due to the lack of a proper setup and the absence of the traditional interview atmosphere. Which is why structured video interview preparation tips is essential to make you feel confident.

According to a study  many corporate MNCs prefer to conduct virtual interviews over in-person ones because it benefits them in various ways. 

But that shouldn’t stop you from landing a job at your dream company. 

In this blog, you will get to learn the most essential video interview preparation tips to help you ace your practice. 

Follow this guide to impress your recruiter. 

What does a video interview mean?

A video interview is a method to screen candidates in remote settings using technology to conduct various assessments. It provides a face-to-face interaction and helps to reduce the time involved in the hiring process. Usually, there are various types of video interviews conducted across the organization. 

In the modern era, video interviews are considered the standard screening step between phone interviews and in-person interviews.  According to study 9 of 10 companies  use video interviews to screen candidates these interviews typically last between thirty to ninety minutes.  If you haven’t been interviewed online or if you are expecting your next interview, here are some tips to help you briefly for your interview success.

Best Video Interview Preparation Tips

Prepare well

Allow a preparation day for your video interview as you go a prepared in-person interview. 

Note down the date, time, and the tech platform in which the interview will be conducted. 

Jot down the contact details of the interview coordinator for communication. Never miss recording yourself before the online interview. 

1. Know the format of the video interview: 

Before you hit ‘Join Meeting,’ be sure you know the format. Whether it is a live interview session or a pre-recorded session. You may wonder what the difference is between the. 

Live Session: In a live session, the interviewer will share a video conference link or you may get a call in Skype, Zoom, Google Meet or any other platform. Here, you are connected directly and speak in one-on-one conversation. 

Pre-Recorded session: The employer uses pre-recorded videos packed with clear instruction on how to tackle each part of the interview. You’ll record your answers within a set time frame. 

2. Set the Scene Right

Fix your spot: Find an ideal spot with no background noise or any distractions. Make sure your pets or housemates interrupt during an interview call.

Check the camera position: Position yourself on the camera right. Note, you must look your interviewer straight in the eye, not starting down or up. Keep the camera at the level of your eye.

No virtual background: Skip using a virtual background, it may distract or make it appear to be floating. Instead, choose a neutral space to look professional, which makes the interviewer focus on you. 

Fix the Lighting: Many people struggle with harsh shadows that disturb their video quality and angles. The goal is to spread light across your face without creating glare. Too much glare? Choose a curtain or lampshade to soften it. Adjust your webcam brightness if needed. Do you know 95% of recruiters suggest using Cool light to warm light during video interviews? 

Quick Tip: Position yourself towards window for natural light. 

3. Plan your outfit

Though it is a video interview, choose to wear a well-fitted outfit that creates a good impression. A recent study shows 34% of hiring managers  look for physical traits to help assess cultural fit. Your attire plays a part in assessing your personality and fit check for the company. Never overdress or underdress instead, research the company’s dress code and wear appropriately on your interview day.

Choose well- fit and solid color outfit: Choose clothes that fit you well, avoid eye-catching colors or patterns, dress for an interview. Instead, go for neutral colors like grey, beige, and blue as a safe choice to wear. 

Test your look on Camera: Before, video interview, make sure to review your appearance on camera. A multiple rehearsal in front of the camera helps your project’s confidence. 

4. Test your tech

App Download & device charging: Download the required application early during your interview preparation. Take time to familiarize yourself with the platform if it is new to you. Check your laptop or tablet is fully charged. 

Strong Wi-Fi connection: Check for Wi-fi connection and check its stability to prevent interruptions during your interview. Use online speed tests like speedtest.net and ensure it at least meets 350kbps. 

Trial run: Do a short trial to test your video,audio, and lighting setup. 

Have a ‘plan B’: Keep a spare device like tablet or smartphone. Inform your interviewer instantly. 

5.  Don’t Ignore Instructions

Before attending pre-recorded video interviews, read the instructions carefully, which is essential to process the interview with clarity and professionalism.

Yes, reading the guidelines is a tedious process, and many of us tend to skip! But remember it costs your desired job. 

Points to focus: Know whether retakes are allowed. 

Stick to time limits to keep your answers concise and clear. 

Ensure you submit your responses before the deadline, it shows reliability. 

6. Practise video interview questions and answers

Practice makes perfect, which is why many successful candidates practice their answers before any interview. You can frame your answers for common interview questions and make a note of technical questions which are highly expected in the interview.

Effective ways to answer common Interview questions 

To learn in such effective ways, explore HCL GUVI’s complete interview preparation Course. 

7. Avoid staring at yourself 

During video interviews, many stare at themselves on the screen instead of focusing on the interviewer, which is a mistake to avoid. Poor eye contact shows lack of interview etiquette. So, a quick video interview tip to follow is, you can sticky note to cover your image. 

8. Practise to Ask Questions: 

Before your video interview, prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions about the role, the team, or the company. Ask questions to show you have done your homework. Ask enough questions to extract the information you want to know. 

9. Know how to finish answers: 

Many end the interview using fillers like -’ Yeah..that’s it’, Umm…I think that’s all. 

Yes, in a video interview, a part of silence lingers as the interviewer might not know you’ve finished your answer. 

A quick video interview tip is to use below phrases to signal you wrap up: 

So, that’s how I approached it.

In short, that helped me to succeed in the project.

10. A quick Last-minute Checklist

Yes, you are all set for the interview with the tips discussed above. But before you go, take  a quick glimpse into the last minute. 

Technical Setup (2 minutes)

Test your microphone, camera, and internet connection for reliability.

Ensure your device is fully charged or plugged in.

Close all unrelated programs and silence notifications.

Environment Preparation (2 minutes)

Choose a quiet, clutter-free space with good lighting.

Position the camera at eye level with a neutral background.

Inform household members to avoid interruptions.

Appearance & Materials (1 minute)

Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview.

Have your resume, cover letter, and notes handy but out of direct view.

Body Language & Presence (2 minutes)

Sit up straight and look directly at the camera. 

Use natural hand gestures and avoid distractions. 

Start with a smile and show engagement with nods.

Mental Preparation & Practice (2 minutes)

Take deep breaths to stay calm and focused just before the interview.

Final Check (1 minute)

Log in 5–10 minutes early to check tech again and get comfortable.

Review your key points and no searching for answers mid-interview! 

Wrapping Up

Yes, Video interviews are different from in-person interviews. Still, it’s an opportunity to land your desired job. After, the pandemic recruiters choose to conduct interviews virtually to assess the right fit. 

But, this can’t be the reason for you not to perform well. Aim to present yourself best, just follow the above-discussed video interview tips. 

‣ Find the right environment that is free from distractions. 

‣ Check your camera position and lighting ahead 

‣  Avoid virtual backgrounds; instead choose a clean, neutral background. 

‣  Dress professionally, strictly no casual wear.

‣ Get familiar with the video interview platform

‣  Read all the guidelines or instructions carefully to get clarity

‣  Avoid fillers; instead, know how to finish your answer confidently. 

‣ Don’t forget to do a practise run. 

‣ Keep a quick checklist handy to avoid last minute rush. 

Quick Tip: Keep a glass of water nearby. 

Now, it is time to shine in your interview 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I prepare for a video interview? 

Set an undistracted environment, Test your tech ahead, familiarize yourself with the interview platform. Wearing professional attire suits the company dress code. Sit up straight & look at the camera.  Log in before 5-10 minutes. 

2. What question will be asked in a video interview?

Practice common interview questions like, ‘Walk me through your resume’, What do you know about the company?What are your strengths and weaknesses?Why are you interested in the position? . ‘How do you see yourself in 5 years?’Can you share your experience with (a technology or tool relevant to the job? 

3. What is a live video interview?

A live interview is conducted in a remote setting, where the interviewer and the hiring team connect through a technology platform such as Zoom, Google Meet, or other video conferencing software.

4. Give effective tips to prepare for video interview

Set a professional environment, Wear a clean and well-fit attire, Research the company, review job description, take deep breath to calm yourself. End by thanking the interviewer. 
Keep few notes handy, don’t read it directly. Use them as reference. 

5. How to ace pre-recorded video interview tips?

The main step to win any interview is to get prepared!  Follow instructions, practise your answers in-front of a mirror. Trial run your recording ahead of the interview, to check your tone, accent and body language. 

6. What to say in a two minute introduction video?  

Start with your background like mentioning your name, current position and accomplishments in your previous role.  Next, highlight your skills, align the job description and wrap up by sharing a unique quality relevant to your industry.