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| A Man Making a Video Call |
So, if you’ve landed a Zoom interview. Congrats! 🎉
Now before you celebrate too hard or roll out of bed 5 minutes before the call thinking, “I’ve got this,” let me hit you with some truth:
In this article, I’ll walk you through the unspoken rules of Zoom interviews. These are the things no one tells you but can totally make or break your chances. From camera tricks to background checks (yes, literally), you’re about to learn how to ace the virtual stage like a pro.
1. Your Background Is the Vibe Check
Yes, they’re judging it.
You might think your cluttered bookshelf or laundry chair is just “real life,” but to your interviewer? It’s a total distraction. Keep it clean and simple. Go with:
- A blank wall
- A tidy corner
- Or a subtle virtual background (NOT the beach, please)
Pro Tip: If your space is a mess, throw on the “blur” feature. It’s a lifesaver.
2. Mute Like a Ninja
If your neighbor loves lawn mowing at 9 AM or your dog thinks the delivery guy is an intruder, the mute button is your best friend.
Rule of thumb: Mute yourself when you’re not talking. It keeps the call clean and you sounding professional.
3. Lighting > Filters
Forget the beauty filters. They glitch anyway.
Instead, sit facing a window or use a ring light. The goal? Let them see your expressions clearly. You want to look alive, not like you’re recording from a cave.
4. Dress Like You Mean It (At Least From the Waist Up)
We all know you’re probably in sweatpants, and that’s okay. But from the chest up, you need to look like you actually want the job.
That means:
- A clean shirt (bonus points for a collar)
- No hoodies or graphic tees
- Brush your hair. Seriously.
You don’t need to overdress. Just look sharp.
5. Look at the Camera, Not Yourself
It’s tempting to stare at your own video box (especially if you’re vibing with your hair that day), but try to look at the camera when you speak. It creates the illusion of real eye contact. That connection matters, even through a screen.
6. Your Tabs Are Watching You
If you’re screen sharing, close all the random stuff:
- That YouTube tab
- Your half-written breakup text
- “How to answer tough interview questions” (busted)
Keep your desktop clean and your browser focused. Always.
Need help with those tough questions? Check out:
“Why Should We Hire You?” How to Answer Like a Pro
7. Test Everything Before Show Time
Don’t wait until the minute before the call to realize your mic doesn’t work.
- Test your audio
- Test your video
- Check your Wi-Fi
- Update Zoom if needed
Even better? Do a dry run with a friend.
8. Body Language Still Counts
This isn’t a FaceTime chat. Posture matters.
- Sit up straight
- Nod when listening
- Smile like a human (not like a statue)
- Use your hands naturally
Your energy translates through the screen. So keep it professional but relaxed.
9. Follow Up or Fade Away
Just because it was online doesn’t mean it’s over when you hit “Leave Meeting.”
Within a day, send a thank-you email. Keep it chill but thoughtful. Something like:
“Thanks so much for your time today. I really enjoyed learning about the role and your team. Excited about the opportunity!”
Boom. You just left a good final impression.
Must read: Be ready to talk about yourself confidently. Read this next:
How to Answer “What Are Your Strengths and Weaknesses?”
Conclusion:
Zoom interviews can feel weird. Like a mix between a formal job interview and an awkward FaceTime with a total stranger. But I hope after reading this article, at least you’ve got a clear idea on how to handle your next Zoom interview like a pro.
Dress right. Speak clearly. Look into the camera. And for the love of all things digital, check your Wi-Fi beforehand.
Nail the virtual vibe, and your next interview could turn into your next offer.
Still job hunting? Wondering if freelancing or full-time is your move?
Freelancing vs Full-Time: Which One’s for You?