Tips to Ace Your Online Video Job Interview

Online job interviews are convenient for both the recruiter and the candidate. In doing an online interview, make sure that you are well-prepared to achieve the end goal that you want.

Online job interviews are cost-effective and allow hiring managers to connect with candidates from anywhere in the world. This method is especially suitable for remote positions that don't require candidates to work on-site. It’s also commonly used as an initial screening step in the recruitment process.

However, although you are not attending the interview in person, it doesn’t mean that it’s less informal than a face-to-face interview. It’s important to be prepared before an online job interview to ensure your interview goes smoothly. Here are some tips to follow before your online job interview.

Prepare your Devices

Before D-day, make sure that your device and application are ready to use. Ensure that your device’s battery is fully charged. If you use smartphones for a video interview, prop it properly on a phone stand and don’t hold it in your hand like a selfie. This may affect your professionalism and reduce your chance of success.

Recruiters usually use services like Skype, Zoom, or Google Meet for video interviews. Make sure that you have the latest version installed in advance—updating the app at the last minute is time-consuming and may disrupt your performance. For better audio quality, use headphones with a built-in microphone instead of relying on your device’s speaker.

Do A Test Run

Ideally, you should do a trial test before joining an online job interview to ensure that everything is working properly. This includes checking your devices and applications. Ask a friend or family member to help check the crucial components, such as your microphones, speakers, camera, and internet connection. Doing this in advance can help you avoid technical issues and make you feel more confident on D-day.

Select the Best Location

The best location for an online job interview is a quiet and tidy room. It’s not advisable to do an online interview in a crowded place like a coffee shop or in the park. Choosing a quiet place ensures that you won’t be distracted during the interview. Furthermore, make sure that the room is properly lit to ensure that you can be seen on camera clearly.

Prepare Yourself

Although online job interviews are less intimidating because you are not present physically, it doesn’t mean that you don’t have to prepare yourself. Just like the usual job interview, you need to look professional. When doing a test run, you can also do a mock interview. Prepare to answer typical behavioral questions, prepare your CV and cover letter, and prepare your questions for the recruiters if you have any.

Final Thoughts

Essentially, attending an online job interview is not much different from an in-person one. The main difference is the need to set up additional equipment, such as ensuring your devices are functioning properly and have a stable internet connection. While this can be daunting at first, proper preparation will boost your confidence and increase your chances of success.

This article is updated on 22 August 2025.

Next read: 6 Common Interview Questions and How to Answer Them