1  

Find the best environment and video background

 Find a private, quiet location where you won’t be interrupted. Switch
your phone off, close windows to block out any outdoor noise, and lock the
door if needs. Find a simple, neutral background and ensure that your shot is
well-lit. It’s best to have the light source coming from in front of you. Adjust
the lighting if required once the shot is set up.

2   Technology & MS Teams

 You will need a laptop with a webcam, a monitor (not essential but
can help with positioning) and some headphones – these can cut out any
echo. 
 Ensure you have a strong internet connection. 
 Make sure you have Microsoft Teams downloaded onto your
computer and familiarise yourself with the system.
3    What to wear for your video interview
 Dress as you normally would for a face-to-face interview. Research
the company and decide what is appropriate to wear.
 Avoid patterns or distracting jewellery and ties. Opt for simple, softer
colours and dress fully – not just from the waist up! This will help you to
psychologically feel ready for the interview.
4    Organise your desk for a stress-free video interview
 Clear your desk space, and simply lay out your prepared notes, your
CV and the job description, so that you have prompts to refer to. 
 Have a pen and paper to hand for any questions that spring to mind
or any key details you want to note down.
 Also make sure you have a glass of water to hand – interviews can be
thirsty work!
5    Find the best shot for success
 Set up the shot so that you’re positioned in the centre of screen with
some clear space above your head, and don’t sit too close to the screen.
 Raise your camera to head level to avoid looking down on the
interviewer and to make it more natural – use a laptop stand, or a pile of
books.
 Within Microsoft Teams, turn off the box that shows you, this avoids
distraction and too much self-consciousness and allows you to focus more
fully on the interviewer and the questions. 
 Once set up, check again for lighting – coming from in front of you. If
you wear glasses, try to position the lighting to remove any unwanted glare.
You’re almost ready to go!
6    Test!
This is a really important step.

 Test your setup. Do a dummy interview using MS Teams with a friend.

You can record it and watch it back to identify any adjustments you need to
make.
  Test the audio, the video and internet speed. Does the background
look ok? How is your positioning?
 What about your body language? Try not to fidget or move your
hands too much, this can be distracting, and can interfere with the
microphone.
It’s crucial to test your set up before the interview. Don’t miss this step!

7    Back-up
 call them and continue by telephone, or to reschedule.
Prepare, prepare, prepare!
Video interviews are no less formal than regular face-to-face interviews. So, it goes without
saying that preparation is your key to success.  Do your research, make sure you understand
the role, and find ways to evidence how your experience aligns with the role.