Top 5 Video Interview Tips to Land Your Dream Job

In this digital age, technology is rapidly changing a variety of common practices and processes, especially in the human resources industry. With the increase in digital adoption, it is very likely that you may be asked to participate in a virtual interview if you are seeking a new role. Although most of the practices followed during a video interview and an in-person interview remain the same, the addition of video technology and your physical environment brings the need for some new interview norms and etiquette.

Whether you are a video interview veteran or have little experience, here are our five essential tips to help you succeed in your next video interview and land that dream role.

Tip #1: Pick the Right Setting

One of the most basic and important video interview tips is to ensure that your surroundings set you up for success. Professionalism has always been important in interviews, and with video, there are no exceptions. Video interviews bring the added challenge of ensuring that not just you, but your environment, also appears professional.

When creating the ideal interview setting, choose a quiet and private space where family members or roommates will not interrupt. Make sure everyone in your household is aware that noise needs to be kept to a minimum during your interview. Finally, do not forget about your background, avoid clutter and distractions. Ideally, choose a plain background, such as a white wall, or declutter the space behind you.

Pro Tip: Natural lighting and a clean, neutral background always make a strong first impression.

Tip #2: Set Yourself and Your Technology Up for Success

The first part of this tip, setting yourself up for success, means bringing the right tools to the interview. Keep a printed copy of your resume at your desk, along with a pen and paper for notes. Have a glass of water nearby in case your throat gets dry. Remember to silence your phone to reduce distractions.

The second part, setting your technology up for success, is equally crucial. Make sure your internet connection is strong enough to support a video call. Test your audio and video before the interview, and check your camera angle. Do not forget to plug in your laptop, you don’t want to scramble for a charger or have your device die mid-interview.

Pro Tip: Always do a test run with a friend or colleague before your real interview.

Tip #3: Watch Your Body Language

Technology can sometimes create a sense of distance between you and the interviewer. This is a reminder that good body language still applies in a video interview. Maintain eye contact by looking at the camera, stay engaged, sit up straight, and use hand gestures naturally when appropriate.

Pro Tip: Smile genuinely, it helps you come across as confident and approachable, even through the screen.

Tip #4: Practice Standard Interview Etiquette

Standard interview etiquette does not change just because the interview is virtual. Arrive early, dress professionally, and avoid bright colours or busy patterns that may be distracting on camera.

As with any interview, go above and beyond, thank the interviewer at the end and follow up with a post-interview thank-you note. It’s not only polite but also reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.

Pro Tip: Keep your tone warm and professional. Remember, first impressions still matter online.

Tip #5: Don’t “Cheat”

Our final tip: don’t “cheat” during your video interview. While it may be tempting to take advantage of the virtual format, doing so can hurt your performance.

A common example is dressing professionally only from the waist up, wearing a blazer on top and pajama bottoms underneath. This can prevent you from getting into a professional mindset, and if you ever need to stand up, your secret will be revealed.

Another temptation is to use a cheat sheet filled with answers to common questions (e.g., “What are your strengths and weaknesses?”). While it may seem helpful, it can make your responses sound robotic and prevent you from maintaining eye contact with your interviewer.

Pro Tip: Instead of scripting answers, prepare key talking points so your responses sound natural and confident.

Conclusion

By following these five tips, you will be well-prepared to excel in your next video interview. While the growing use of technology in the job search process can feel challenging, it also provides an incredible level of convenience and opportunity. Keep these best practices in mind to help you build the confidence and skill set needed to land your dream role and future opportunities beyond it.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What should I wear for a video interview?
Dress as you would for an in-person interview, professional and neat. Avoid bright colours or loud patterns that may distract on camera.

2. How early should I join a virtual interview?
Join at least 5–10 minutes before the scheduled time to test your connection, audio, and video.

3. What is the best background for a video interview?
Choose a clean, quiet, and uncluttered space with good lighting. A plain wall or tidy room works best.

4. How can I make a good impression on camera?
Maintain eye contact with the camera, smile naturally, and sit up straight. Speak clearly and confidently.

5. Should I send a thank-you email after a video interview?
Absolutely. Sending a thank-you email reinforces professionalism and helps you stand out from other candidates.

Are you looking for a new role? Send us your resume at info@beach-head.com, and we will help you land your dream job.