Remote Video Interviews: Best Practices

This guide covers the technical, wardrobe, and environmental best practices for participating in a remote video interview conducted over Zoom.

What are the technical guidelines for a Zoom video interview?

• Platform: Zoom Meeting. Download the Zoom app onto the device you will use for the interview (see: https://zoom.us/download).
• Wi-fi is acceptable, but a wired Internet connection is best.
• Close other applications to conserve bandwidth.
• Silence your cell phone and any other notifications (calendar alerts, email alerts, etc.).
• A native laptop/cell phone microphone is acceptable, but a headset or directional microphone is best.
• If using a laptop, elevate your device so the camera is at eye level. Avoid having to look up or down into the camera.
• If using a cell phone, turn your device to landscape (horizontal) position. The camera should be at eye level.
• Look at the camera, not at the screen (particularly when you are speaking).
• Maintain the positioning of your video frame. Try not to rock in your seat or move drastically outside of your video frame.
• Assume that you will be on camera for the entire interview. Do not get up or leave the frame during the interview, even if someone else is speaking.
• Do not put yourself on mute or turn off your camera for any reason during the interview.
• The recording will be edited. If you make a mistake or must stop the interview, that’s okay. Just say “CUT” or “STOP” so the host knows you need to pause/regroup.

What should you wear for a video interview?

• Avoid tight patterns. Pinstripe and herringbone patterns can cause a moiré effect that creates strobing and can’t be adjusted on camera or in post-production.
• Avoid solid white clothing. White reflects a great deal of light and can cause the camera to wash out your video; in effect, you will look overexposed.
• Be aware of the color of your webcam background. Wear a contrasting color so that you don’t blend in with the background.

How should you set up your background and lighting?

• Your room/environment should be quiet and well-lit.
• If you have an additional table lamp, you can use it to highlight your face. Place it at a 45-degree angle in front of you.
• Avoid using the built-in ‘virtual background’ feature. For best results, position yourself against an uncluttered backdrop.
• Avoid being backlit by bright sunlight (e.g., through a window shining directly into the camera). This can cause the webcam to auto-adjust and will make your face look very dark (silhouetted).
• Do not attempt to ‘dress’ the background with company signage, logos, etc.