Zoom interview tips: 13 ways to nail your video interview

Got a job interview coming up? These days, there’s a good chance it’s a virtual interview, conducted over a Zoom meeting or via another video conferencing software. If you’re looking for virtual interview tips, you’ve come to the right place!

In the guide below, we’ll cover Zoom interview tips to help you prepare for your upcoming job interview. These tips apply to teens getting their first job as well as adults transitioning into new roles. Let’s get started!

What is a Zoom interview?

Zoom is a popular video platform for video chats and conferencing. A Zoom interview is simply a job interview conducted virtually using Zoom, instead of a traditional in-person interview. These meetings may also take place over Skype, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, or other video chat software.

Many companies now use video interviews. In fact, a recent survey found that 44% of companies used virtual interviews for hiring. Video interviews are particularly common during the early stages of the hiring process. Interviewees will sign on from home and meet with the company’s hiring team via webcam. And it’s not just for online jobs — traditional companies hiring for in-person jobs are also now conducting a lot of interviews online.

Video interviews are convenient, but they do present some unique challenges — like ensuring your technology is working properly. But don’t worry — these Zoom interview tips will help you prepare. 

13 Zoom interview tips to rock your job interview

These tips will help you get ready for your interview — and hopefully, land a job! We’ve included tips for before your interview, during your interview, and after your interview so you can be prepared from start to finish.

1. Find a stable internet connection 🖥️

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The last thing you want is to be lagging or cutting out during your job interview! Step one should be to find a quiet location in your home that has the strongest Wi-Fi signal. Usually, this will be close to your internet router.

2. Consider your background and environment 🛋️

The next Zoom interview tip is to think about what will show up in the background. Ideally, you should try to find a blank wall to sit in front of so that there are no distractions in the background. A well-lit room is also important, so that the interviewer can see you clearly.

You can also use a virtual background (a filter which is built into Zoom), but if you go this route, choose one of the simple ones that blur your background. While it’s always fun to use a unique virtual background when chatting with friends, it’s not very professional in a job interview setting.

3. Test, then test again 🤔

Before your interview, test your setup thoroughly to avoid technical difficulties. Zoom and other video conferencing software options typically have built-in testing tools. These let you check your audio, video, and internet connection to make sure you’re prepared.

Alternatively, you could have a parent or friend call you on Zoom from another location to make sure everything’s working correctly.

4. Dress appropriately 🧑‍💼

Pick out an outfit that is as professional as possible. A nice blouse or a long-sleeve button-up will be sufficient. And while we’ve all seen the memes about Zoom calls in your PJs, it’s still a good idea to wear professional-looking pants or a skirt as well.

5. Use a laptop (or a computer with a webcam) 💻

While it’s possible to use your phone for a video interview, it’s typically best to use a computer. That way the video feed will be stable, and you won’t have to hold your phone awkwardly for half an hour!

Most laptops have webcams built-in. Desktops with monitors typically do not, so they will need an external webcam installed. Also, make sure whatever device you use is plugged in to avoid a dead battery mid-interview.

If you don’t have a computer to use, the next best option is to use a smartphone or tablet and lean it up against something so that you don’t have to hold it.

6. Silence your phone and turn off notifications 📳

On the day of your interview, it’s time to silence notifications and your phone to avoid distractions. It’s also a good idea to check in with other people in your household (e.g., parents, roommates, etc.) to ensure that you’ll have a quiet space for your interview.

7. Prepare for common interview questions ✍️

With a Zoom interview, the format is different, but many questions may be similar to a traditional interview experience. Here are some common questions to prepare for:

• Can you tell me about yourself and your background?

• Why do you think you’re a good fit for this job?

• How do you deal with stressful situations or pressure?

• Do you work better independently or as part of a team?

• How did you hear about this position?

By thinking about your answers to some of these questions ahead of time, you’ll sharpen your interviewing skills and feel more prepared.

8. Make eye contact 👀

Virtual interviews can feel a bit awkward, but it’s important to make eye contact. In this case, “eye contact” actually means looking approximately at the camera, rather than on the computer screen.

You’ll also want to maintain good body language. This means sitting up straight with good posture, looking the interviewer in the eye, maintaining pleasant and professional facial expressions, and trying not to fidget too much.

Speaking of fidgeting: Some people find it helpful to have a small stress ball or even just a tennis ball to squeeze gently under the desk. This gives you something to do with your hands, which some people find is helpful for staying focused.

9. Use the mute button 🤫

If you keep your audio on all the time, the interviewer may hear background noise, shuffling, etc. So our next Zoom interview tip is to use the mute button, but be sure to turn it off when you are speaking.

10. Be an active listener 🎧

While the interviewer is speaking, be sure to pay close attention. It’s also good to show the interviewer that you are listening: Nod where appropriate, and follow up with specific questions or comments related to what your interviewer has said.

11. Ask questions ❓

Part of the interview process should include a time for the interviewee (you) to ask questions. You might want to ask about the team you’ll be working with, the company culture, the expectations and requirements of the role, and anything else that comes up. Asking relevant questions will help you make a good impression and will tell you more information about the job.

12. Send a thank-you email 📧

Shortly after your interview, it’s a good idea to send a brief thank-you email to the hiring manager or recruiter (or whoever interviewed you) thanking them for their time. It can be quite short — just say something like, “Thank you for the opportunity to interview today. I appreciate your time, and I look forward to hearing from you.”

13. Follow up after a week or so 🗓️

If you don’t hear back within 5-7 business days, it’s a good idea to send another brief email to check in. You can say something like, “Thank you again for the opportunity to interview. I was wondering if the hiring team has made any decisions regarding this role. Also, please let me know if you need anything else from me. Thank you.”

Job seekers can benefit from better video call skills

Since so many interviews are done online these days, brushing up on your Zoom skills can really help with landing your next role — or even your dream job. The above Zoom interview tips are a great place to start.

If you’re on the job search, writing a good resume is another key component. And if you wind up getting hired for your first role, you’ll then need to manage your money from your new paychecks!

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