You’ve landed a video interview for a job you really want. Congratulations! Now it’s time to make a great first impression through your computer screen. As with any interview, how you present yourself matters. Your attire, grooming, and the background environment communicating via video all contribute to the image you convey to the interviewer.

You want to look as professional on-screen as you would in person. With some simple tips for optimizing your appearance for the camera and setting the right scene, you can feel fully prepared to ace that video interview and move on to the next round. Read on for advice to help you look like the most competent candidate on the computer screen.

 

Choose the Right Colors and Patterns for Video Interviews

For your video interview, choose solid, neutral colors that look professional on camera. Avoid busy patterns or bright colors that can distract or wash you out.

Solid colors

Stick to blacks, navy, grays, or beiges. These solid colors appear crisp and focused on video. White or light blue shirts also create an open, trustworthy impression.

Avoid patterns and brights

Steer clear of patterns, logos, or bright colors that vibrate or bleed on camera. Busy prints also distract from your face and message. Bright red or yellow, for example, overpower you on screen.

Dress for your industry

Consider your industry norms. If you're interviewing for a creative role, express your style in a professional way. For finance or law, stick to traditional business attire. It's always better to be overdressed than under.

Test your look

Set up a practice video call with a friend. Check how colors appear on camera and make sure there's no glare. Examine how you look from different angles. Get used to seeing yourself on screen -- it will make you appear more comfortable during your actual interview.

With the right professional and industry-appropriate look, you'll feel poised and help the interviewer focus on what really matters: your experience, skills, and enthusiasm for the role. Dress for success!

Dress Appropriately From Head to Toe

When dressing for your video interview, choose an outfit that is professional yet comfortable. Focus on presenting yourself as a serious candidate from head to toe.

Tops:

Opt for a button-down shirt, blouse, or simple dress. Make sure any patterns are muted, and avoid low-cut necklines. A blazer or cardigan adds a polished touch.

Bottoms:

Slip into dress pants, a knee-length skirt, or a dress. Dark, solid colors are best. Make sure everything is wrinkle-free, and the fit is flattering.

Shoes:

Closed-toe shoes are a must. Avoid anything too flashy. Simple flats, loafers, or low heels for women, and oxfords or loafers for men are good options.

Accessories:

Limit jewelry and accessories which can be distracting on camera. A simple watch and small earrings are okay for women; a tie or pocket square for men can complete the look.

Hair and Makeup:

Have a friend check that your hair and makeup look professional yet natural on camera. Make sure you're well-groomed, and any scents you're wearing are subtle.

With the proper outfit and grooming in place, you'll feel at ease and ready to ace your video interview. Presenting your best professional self on the screen will allow your experience and qualifications to shine through.

Perfect Your Grooming and Background

To look professional in a video interview, pay attention to the details. Focus on neat, tidy hair and subtle makeup suited for HD video. Keep your hairstyle professional and avoid overly casual looks. For women, apply light makeup with a natural look, and avoid bright lipstick, which can look too dramatic on camera. For men, be well-groomed with a clean shave or trimmed facial hair.

Background

Find a quiet, distraction-free spot for your interview. Position the camera at eye level for the most flattering angle. Ensure good lighting, preferably from the front, to avoid shadows on your face. Check the framing in your camera preview to ensure the background is uncluttered and professional. A plain wall is ideal.

 

Dressing professionally, perfecting your grooming, and choosing an appropriate background set the right tone for a video interview. Following these best practices will give you confidence and help you make a great first impression. With the right preparation, you'll shine on screen and impress the interviewer with your poise and polish.

Adjust Your Lighting and Camera Angle

When preparing for a video interview, pay attention to your lighting and camera angle. How you present yourself on camera makes a big impression.

Adjust your lighting

Make sure you have adequate lighting, preferably in front of you. Dim or dark lighting will make you appear shadowy or hard to see. Harsh overhead lighting can also be unflattering. Soft, diffuse lighting from the front is ideal. You might try taping tissue paper over bright lights to diffuse them.

Frame the shot

Check that your camera is capturing you at a flattering angle. Having the camera slightly above your eye level, angled down at your face, is a tried-and-true tactic photographers and television journalists use. This angle is the most flattering for most people. Make sure the camera is stable so you don't appear shaky or in motion on the video.

Dress appropriately

Even though this is a video call, dress as you would for an in-person interview. Wear professional business attire, minimal patterns, and solid, bright colors. Make sure your backdrop is uncluttered and work-appropriate. A plain wall is ideal.

With some simple adjustments to your lighting, framing, and attire, you'll look polished and professional for your video interview. By taking the time to consider these details, you'll make a great first impression and feel more confident on camera.

The End!

So there you have it; with these simple tips, you'll be camera ready and looking professional for your next video interview. Remember, dress for the job you want, not the one you have. Putting in the effort to look polished and prepared will give you an extra boost of confidence.

And confidence, combined with your skills and experience, is exactly what will land you that new role. You've got this! Now go pick out that perfect interview outfit, set up your technology, do a test run, and wow them with your poise and professionalism. The job is yours for the taking. Break a leg!