How to Prepare for a Video Interview

Video interviews on Teams, Zoom or recorded platforms are now routine for UK employers. The questions are the same as in person, but the setting changes how you come across.

Before the interview

• Test your camera, microphone and internet connection the day before.

• Close other apps and silence notifications.

• Choose a quiet, well-lit space with a plain background. Light should face you, not sit behind you.

• Have your CV, the job description and a glass of water within reach.

During the interview

• Look at the camera when speaking, not at your own image.

• Dress as you would for an in-person interview, from head to toe.

• Pause briefly before answering, as delays can cause people to talk over each other.

• Keep notes to a few bullet points so you do not look down constantly.

One-way recorded interviews

Some employers ask you to record answers to set questions. You usually get a short preparation time and a time limit per answer. Practise answering to a timer, keep each answer structured and finish with a clear conclusion.

If something goes wrong

If your connection drops, rejoin quickly and apologise briefly. Interviewers understand that technology fails; staying calm reflects well on you.