As more UK companies embrace hybrid and remote working models, video interviews have become the new standard in the hiring process. Whether you’re applying for a role in finance, tech, or creative industries, your ability to present yourself confidently online can make all the difference.
This guide covers the most important tips for video interviews in 2025–2026 — including how to prepare your environment, manage technology, present yourself professionally, and respond to common video interview questions.
1. Prepare Your Environment
Before you even join the video call, your surroundings make a strong first impression. A well-prepared environment communicates professionalism and attention to detail.
Find a Quiet Space
Choose a room free from background noise, pets, or interruptions. Inform family members or housemates of your interview time in advance.
Ensure Good Lighting
Face a natural light source, like a window, or place a soft desk lamp in front of you. Avoid sitting with a bright light or window directly behind you—it can cause shadows and make your face appear dark on camera.
Test Your Tech Beforehand
- Check your Wi-Fi connection for stability.
- Test your microphone, webcam, and speakers.
- Close unnecessary browser tabs and apps that might cause lag.
- Ensure your interview platform (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet) is updated.
Charge Your Devices
Keep your laptop fully charged and your charger nearby. If using wireless headphones, ensure they’re powered up before the call.
2. Set Up Your Camera
Your camera setup should create a professional, comfortable viewing angle.
Position the Camera
Place your camera at eye level — this creates a natural and confident posture. Avoid angles that look up your nose or down at you.
Look at the Camera
When speaking, look directly into the camera lens rather than at your own image. This gives the impression of maintaining eye contact with the interviewer, which enhances connection.
3. Dress Professionally
Even though you’re at home, dress as you would for an in-person interview. Appearance affects mindset and confidence.
Wear Smart, Plain Clothes
Opt for solid colours (navy, grey, white) instead of bold patterns that may distract on screen.
Avoid bright white under harsh lighting, as it can reflect too strongly.
Tip: Always dress fully — not just from the waist up — in case you need to stand or adjust your camera.
4. During the Interview
Once you’re live, it’s time to show confidence, communication skills, and composure.
Practice Good Body Language
- Sit upright with your shoulders relaxed.
- Keep your hands visible but calm.
- Smile naturally — it builds rapport.
Speak Clearly at a Steady Pace
Video calls can have minor delays. Speak slightly slower than usual and pause briefly after the interviewer finishes speaking to avoid overlapping.
Use the STAR Method
When answering behavioural or situational questions, structure your response using STAR —
Situation, Task, Action, Result.
This keeps your answers organised and focused.
Take Deep Breaths to Stay Calm
It’s natural to feel nervous. Breathe deeply, maintain a calm tone, and remind yourself that the interviewer wants you to succeed.
5. Practice and Follow-Up
Preparation is the secret to mastering virtual interviews.
Record Yourself Practising
Conduct mock interviews and record them. Review your tone, pace, posture, and camera presence. Look for filler words (“um,” “like”) and aim to speak with clarity.
After the Interview
Send a short, polite thank-you email within 24 hours. Express gratitude for the opportunity and reaffirm your enthusiasm for the role.
“Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today. I really enjoyed learning more about your company’s culture and the role. I’m excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team.”
6. Final Tips for Video Interviews
Research the Company and Role
Know the company’s mission, products, and recent achievements. Interviewers expect candidates to have done their homework.
Understand the Interview Type
There are different types of video interviews:
- Live interviews: Real-time discussions via Zoom or Teams.
- Pre-recorded interviews: You record answers to timed questions.
In pre-recorded formats, stay concise and look directly at the camera for each response.
Practice Your Responses
Review common interview questions and practise saying them aloud. Focus on examples that show your skills and achievements.
Record and Review Yourself
This helps you identify nervous habits, facial expressions, or unclear phrasing so you can improve before the real interview.
Frequently Asked Video Interview Questions & How to Answer
Below are some of the most common video interview questions UK employers ask — along with sample answers.
1. Tell Me About Yourself
How to Answer:
Structure your answer using Present → Past → Future.
“I’m currently working as a project coordinator, focusing on cross-departmental collaboration. Previously, I completed a degree in Business Management and developed a passion for digital transformation. I’m now looking to take on a more strategic role that combines leadership with innovation.”
2. Why Are You Interested in This Position?
How to Answer:
“This role combines my strengths in team collaboration and analytical thinking. I’m particularly drawn to your company’s focus on innovation and sustainability, which aligns with my personal values.”
3. Why Do You Want to Work for Our Company?
How to Answer:
“Your company’s growth in the UK market and emphasis on professional development stand out to me. I believe my skills in communication and client management could add real value to your team.”
4. What Are Your Greatest Strengths and Weaknesses?
How to Answer:
“My greatest strength is adaptability — I can stay calm and productive under changing priorities.
As for weakness, I’ve been working on improving my time management by using digital tools like Trello to plan and track tasks more efficiently.”
Final Thoughts
In today’s job market, where video interviews dominate early hiring stages, preparation is more important than ever. From setting up your camera correctly to using the STAR method for responses, small details can create a lasting impression.
Remember, confidence comes from preparation — so practise in front of a camera, refine your answers, and treat a virtual interview just as seriously as an in-person one.
For personalised interview coaching, mock video sessions, and feedback tailored to your target industry, visit JobInterviewology.com.
Our expert coaches in the UK specialise in helping candidates master video interviews and land their ideal roles.