Virtual interview tips are no longer just nice to know—they’re essential. In a world where hiring is increasingly remote, knowing how to prepare for and succeed in a video interview can set you apart from hundreds of candidates.
Whether you’re applying for a new role or moving up in your field, these virtual interview tips will help you make a great impression through the screen.
1. Virtual Interview Tips Start With Tech Setup
The most critical virtual interview tip? Get your tech in order.
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Test your internet speed using Speedtest.
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Use a high-resolution webcam and a reliable microphone.
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Run a test call on Zoom or Google Meet.
Nothing derails a remote interview faster than a lagging screen or poor audio. A tech-prepped interview is the foundation of your success.
2. Choose the Right Background for Virtual Interview Success
Professional virtual interview tips always include setting the scene. A messy or noisy background can make you seem unprepared.
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Select a neutral space with minimal distractions.
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Use good lighting—natural light or a soft desk lamp works great.
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Avoid virtual backgrounds unless they’re clean and brand-consistent.
3. Dress Professionally for Virtual Interviews
Among the most overlooked virtual interview tips is attire. What you wear affects how you feel—and how you’re perceived.
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Stick to solid, non-distracting colors.
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Dress head-to-toe, not just your top half.
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Avoid busy prints and flashy accessories.
According to Harvard Business Review, dressing professionally—even at home—boosts self-confidence and interview performance.
4. Log in Early: A Virtual Interview Tip That Shows Discipline
Plan to log in 5–10 minutes early. This simple virtual interview tip shows professionalism and gives you buffer time for unexpected tech issues.
Double-check your camera, mic, and lighting once more before the call begins.
5. Make Eye Contact by Looking at the Camera
Here’s a top-tier virtual interview tip: look at your webcam, not the interviewer’s face on the screen.
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Place a sticky note behind your webcam to keep your eyes up.
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Move the video window close to your camera for easier alignment.
This creates the illusion of eye contact, boosting connection and trust.
6. Use Confident Body Language on Video Calls
Body language still matters online. This virtual interview tip ensures you’re visually engaging.
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Sit up straight to appear alert and confident.
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Smile genuinely to create warmth.
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Use light hand gestures to emphasize your points.
Not sure how you come across? Record a mock interview with Big Interview and review your posture and tone.
7. Be Concise and Clear With Every Answer
Great virtual interview tips also cover what you say—and how you say it. Avoid rambling and background noise.
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Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure answers.
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Take a slight pause before replying to avoid talking over the interviewer.
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Use real-life examples to make your answers memorable.
8. Ask Smart Questions at the End
Strong candidates use virtual interview tips not only to answer questions but to ask them. Prepare 2–3 thoughtful questions, such as:
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“What does success look like in this role?”
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“How does the team stay connected remotely?”
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“What are your expectations in the first 90 days?”
These questions reinforce your enthusiasm and preparation.
9. Follow Up With a Thank-You Email
Another often-forgotten virtual interview tip is the follow-up. Send a thank-you email within 24 hours.
Keep it concise:
“Thank you for your time today. I enjoyed learning more about your remote culture and team structure. I’m excited about the opportunity and hope to contribute meaningfully.”
Need help? Use Indeed’s sample thank-you templates.
10. Practice Your Virtual Interview Delivery
No list of virtual interview tips is complete without one key reminder: practice makes perfect.
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Rehearse your answers on camera and watch the playback.
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Ask a friend to mock-interview you via Zoom.
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Check for filler words, pacing, and camera awareness.
Join organizations like Toastmasters International to build public speaking confidence that translates well on camera.
Final Thoughts: Use These Virtual Interview Tips to Stand Out
With remote work becoming the norm, mastering these virtual interview tips gives you a competitive edge. From prepping your tech and space to showing confidence on camera, each small step builds a stronger overall presence.
Apply these virtual interview tips consistently and you’ll not only pass interviews—you’ll impress, connect, and get hired.
