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How to Create the Best Background for Your Video Interview

How to Create the Best Background for Your Video Interview

If you’ve been scheduled for a video interview there are many things to consider.  However, don’t limit your planning only to your wardrobe and friendly personality.  A video interview is just as important as a face-to-face interview and since you are in charge of your surroundings, you need to display professionalism in this area. Below are tips that will help to ensure you look and sound good in your video interview

Location

The first thing you should focus on when preparing for your video interview is the location in which you will conduct your interview.  A video interview is just as professional as an in-person interview, so you will want to select a location that looks professional.

For example, if you have a room in your home that you plan to use for the interview, be sure to pay attention to the room’s decor.  I recommend you select a room with neutral colors and with limited photos or decorations in the background.

Remember, you want the hiring manager to be focused on you and not that family photo or flashy pink flowers in the background.

Sound

After you have selected the location for your video interview, take a moment to sit in the room and listen.  I recommend that you do this around the same time of day that your video interview is scheduled.  For example, if your interview is scheduled for a weekday at 3pm, you may hear different sounds on a Saturday or Sunday at 3pm.

Think about the sounds you are hearing.  Are there loud, distracting noises?  Envision what it will be like during the interview with any background noises you are hearing.

The most important thing is that you do not have any distracting sounds or noises that may derail the interview or cause you to lose your focus.

Lighting

After making sure your interview location looks and sounds professional, take a look at the lighting.  I recommend that you set up your webcam so that you can actually turn video on and see what your lighting looks like on the camera.

If the camera feed is dim, turn on additional lights.  However, you do not want it too be so bright that you are practically blinded.  Just make sure that you do not have the appearance of a dark shadow on the camera.  Believe me, it can be a bit creepy as a hiring manager to interview someone who looks like a shadowy dark form on the camera and it can greatly affect the hiring manager’s decision.

What are some other things you should consider when it comes to your video interview location?  Please share your ideas in the comments below.

If you enjoyed this article, you’ll love our post on the top 10 video interviewing tips.

Image: Wavebreak Media Ltd/BigStock.com

Julia Weeks

Julia is a skilled Recruiter with over 8 years of experience in sourcing, interviewing, and hiring within many industries globally. She works closely with hiring managers and job seekers to understand needs and desires, while offering guidance and ensuring the right fit. When not recruiting or writing, Julia enjoys spending time outside cycling, taking her dog for walks, or honing her sailing skills.

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