Video Interview Fails: Backgrounds, Lighting, and Wardrobe Blunders
Job interviews can be nerve-wracking enough, let alone when they are conducted over video. With the rise of remote work and virtual interviews, it’s important to know how to present yourself professionally on camera. But sometimes things can go wrong, and it’s not just technical difficulties. From messy backgrounds to poor lighting, and even wardrobe malfunctions, there are plenty of blunders that can detract from your performance during a video interview. In this article, we’ll discuss some common video interview fails and how to avoid them.
Backgrounds Matter
One of the first things a hiring manager will see in a video interview is your background. While you may have overlooked the pile of laundry on your bed or the unmade bed behind you, trust us, the interviewer won’t miss it. Your background should be clean, clutter-free, and ideally, neutral. Avoid sitting in front of a busy bookshelf or a wall with distracting decor. If you don’t have a plain wall to sit in front of, consider hanging a plain sheet or using a virtual background. This will ensure that the focus stays on you rather than your surroundings.
Lighting Matters Too
Poor lighting can make you look unprofessional and can even affect the quality of your video. Natural lighting is always best, so try to sit facing a window or open blinds to let in natural light. If that’s not possible, invest in a ring light or desk lamp to ensure you’re well-lit. Avoid sitting in a dark room or with a bright light source directly behind you, as this can create unflattering shadows.
Wardrobe Blunders
Just because you’re interviewing from home doesn’t mean you can slack on your outfit. Avoid wearing a t-shirt or anything too casual. Dress as you would for an in-person interview. This will not only show that you take the interview seriously, but it will also help you get into the right mindset. Another mistake to avoid is wearing patterns that can be distracting on camera. Stick to solid, neutral colors. And remember, just because you’re only visible from the waist up, doesn’t mean you can skip pants. You never know when you might need to stand up!
Practice Makes Perfect
While it’s impossible to control every aspect of your video interview environment, a little preparation can go a long way. Set up a mock interview with a friend or family member to test your camera, lighting, and sound. This will give you an opportunity to make any necessary adjustments and to practice your answers to common interview questions. It’s also a good idea to do a test run of the video conferencing platform you’ll be using to ensure you’re comfortable with the technology.
In Conclusion
Video interviews may seem daunting, but with a little preparation and attention to detail, you can avoid common blunders and present yourself in a professional manner. Remember to pay attention to your background, lighting, and wardrobe, and to practice beforehand. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to make a positive impression on your next video interview.
