In today’s hiring landscape, some companies ask job applicants to record short video responses to pre-set prompts. Think of these videos as the bridge between a written application and a live interview; they’re a great way to demonstrate your enthusiasm, communication style, and personality. To help you make a strong impression, here are four practical tips for preparing your video responses:
- Check your appearance and surroundings. Pay attention to the clothes you’re wearing and what’s visible in the frame of the video. Dress in business attire just as you would to attend an in-person interview. In addition, examine the room around you and your background to make sure everything in-frame appears in order and professional. Remove any visual or auditory distractions, as they can affect your focus while recording and might also distract the hiring manager when they review your video.
- Prepare notes and practice eye contact. Prior to hitting “record” on your response, prepare by taking notes and outlining the points you’d like to cover. It’s perfectly acceptable to glance down occasionally during your response to check your notes, but make sure you’re not just reading from the page. Try to maintain eye contact with your device’s camera as much as you can, as this mimics in-person eye contact and makes your message feel more direct and engaging to the hiring manager.
- Rehearse out loud. Even if it feels a bit strange, talk through your answer a couple of times out loud before recording. This helps you develop a smoother, more natural flow that reflects how you typically speak. Pay attention to the length of your response as well – consider timing yourself with your phone or a stopwatch. Some companies set a strict time limit that automatically ends the recording, so practicing beforehand will help you stay within those boundaries. Even if no official time limit is given, aim to keep your answers clear and concise.
- Review your recording before submitting. If the system or website allows it, watch your video response back before you send it to ensure it looks professional and fully answers the question you were asked. If you’re not satisfied with your first attempt and feel you can improve, give yourself another chance and re-record your answer.
Video interviews may feel a little awkward at first, but with preparation, they become a powerful tool in your job-search toolkit. Delivering your answers with clarity and confidence shows hiring managers not only what you’ve done professionally, but who you are as a communicator and a potential teammate. Use the opportunity to share your personality and experience in a way that sets you apart. Happy job hunting!