Video interviews are generally now a standard part of the hiring process, with companies using them to speed up recruitment, widen their talent pool, and save everyone a bit of time (and travel money). But this doesn't necessarily mean they're easier than in-person interviews.

Let’s talk about the common pitfalls candidates face, and how you can absolutely smash your next one.

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Why Are Video Interviews So Popular Now?

• Faster Hiring Process – No need to wait for everyone’s calendars to align for a face-to-face meeting. Video interviews can be slotted in at short notice, moving things along much quicker.

• Wider Talent Pool – Employers aren’t just looking locally anymore. Video interviews allow companies to assess candidates from different cities, or even countries.

• Cost Savings – For both candidates and employers, there’s no need to fork out for travel or coffee shop meetings.

• More Flexibility – Some companies use one-way video interviews, where candidates record answers to pre-set questions. This allows hiring managers to review them at their own pace. (Yes, it’s a bit awkward talking to a screen, but we’ll get to that).

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The Common Pitfalls of Video Interviews (And How to Avoid Them)

Yes, it's nice to be in the comfort of being in your own home but that doesn’t mean you can relax too much. Here are the biggest mistakes candidates make—and how to sidestep them:

🚨 Tech Failures – Nothing kills an interview faster than dodgy Wi-Fi, a laggy video, or a microphone that makes you sound like a robot.
✔ Fix It: Test your tech before the interview. Have a backup device ready. And, please, remember to charge your laptop...

🚨 Poor Lighting & Awkward Angles – Sitting in a dimly lit room looking like you’re filming a horror movie? Not ideal.
✔ Fix It: Sit facing a natural light source or use a desk lamp. Keep the camera at eye level so you’re not staring down at the interviewer.

🚨 Distracting Backgrounds – No one wants to see your laundry pile or your dog scratching at the door.
✔ Fix It: A neutral background is best, but a tidy home office setup works too. Virtual backgrounds? Only if they look professional—no tropical beaches or outer space settings,...

🚨 Talking Over the Interviewer – Video calls have a slight lag, and talking over someone (even accidentally) can make things awkward.
✔ Fix It: Pause briefly before responding. This avoids talking over the interviewer and gives your answer more impact.

🚨 Not Looking at the Camera – If you’re staring at yourself in the little box on Zoom, it’ll look like you’re avoiding eye contact.
✔ Fix It: Look directly at the camera when speaking. It feels weird at first, but it makes a huge difference in building a connection.

🚨 Being Too Casual – Yes, you’re at home, but this is still an interview.
✔ Fix It: Dress like you would for an in-person meeting (at least from the waist up). Also, sit up straight—slouching makes you look uninterested.

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How to Absolutely Nail Your Next Video Interview

• Treat it Like a Real Interview – Just because you’re at home doesn’t mean it’s informal. Prepare, research the company, and have questions ready.

• Use Notes Wisely – One advantage of video interviews is that you can have key points written down. Just don’t read off a script—it’s obvious.

• Control Your Environment – Find a quiet space. No barking dogs, noisy flatmates, or unexpected Amazon deliveries interrupting mid-sentence.

• Practice Answering Questions on Camera – Record yourself answering common interview questions. It’ll help you spot any bad habits (like rambling or lack of eye contact).

• End with Confidence – Don’t just say “thanks” and leave awkwardly. Wrap up with something like: "I’ve really enjoyed this conversation and learning more about the role. I’m excited about the opportunity and look forward to the next steps."

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Video interviews are here to stay, and while they might feel a little unnatural at first, they actually give you a chance to shine in ways that in-person interviews don’t. You’re in control of your environment, you can have notes handy, and you only have to dress professionally from the waist up...

Master the basics, avoid the common pitfalls, and approach it like a normal conversation. Do that, and you'll ace your next video interview.

Now, go test your Wi-Fi. You’ll thank us later.