Video interviews have become an essential part of modern hiring practices. Yet many candidates still struggle with small, avoidable errors that can cost them valuable opportunities. Understanding what are some common mistakes to avoid in a video interview is critical for presenting yourself professionally and making a strong impression.
Success in a video interview hinges not only on what you say but also on how you manage your environment, body language, and technology. Employers evaluate every detail as closely as they would in an in-person meeting.
Virtual interviews are no longer an exception—they are the norm. A 2023 HireVue report revealed that over 70% of companies now rely primarily on video interviews during their hiring process. While video conferencing feels familiar thanks to remote work trends, interviewing virtually requires an even sharper focus on professionalism.
Small mistakes that might seem insignificant during a casual Zoom call can leave a lasting negative impression during a job interview. Recognizing what are some common mistakes to avoid in a video interview gives you a competitive advantage and positions you for success.
Knowing what to avoid is just as important as knowing what to say. Here are some common mistakes candidates make in video interviews and how you can prevent them.
One of the most common missteps is neglecting technical readiness. Many candidates assume their equipment will work without checking beforehand, leading to avoidable issues during the interview itself. Problems like a frozen screen, muffled microphone, or lagging internet connection create unnecessary distractions and reflect poorly on your preparation skills.
To prevent these issues:
These precautions show that you take the process seriously and respect the interviewer's time.
Your environment says a lot about your professionalism. Interviewers pay attention not only to your words but also to what they see behind you. A cluttered background or harsh lighting can easily distract from your message and undermine your credibility.
When setting up your space:
The goal is to direct the interviewer’s attention to you—not your surroundings.
Another trap candidates fall into is dressing too casually because they are interviewing from home. Just because the interview happens through a screen doesn’t mean you can relax your professional standards.
Common attire mistakes include wearing T-shirts, hoodies, or outfits with busy patterns that can distort on camera. On the other extreme, overly formal or flashy attire can also distract rather than impress.
Aim for clean, solid-colored professional clothing. Choose outfits that look crisp on camera and avoid wearing anything too reflective or brightly patterned. Dressing appropriately shows that you understand the importance of the meeting and take it seriously, no matter the format.
Non-verbal communication plays a crucial role during video interviews. Many candidates unintentionally weaken their connection with interviewers by looking at their own image on the screen rather than at the camera, or by slouching and appearing disengaged.
To project confidence:
While it's important to prepare for your video interview, sounding overly rehearsed can backfire. Candidates who memorize responses word-for-word often come across as stiff, robotic, and disconnected from the conversation. Interviewers want to engage with someone authentic—not someone who sounds like they're reading from a script.
Instead of memorizing full answers, it’s better to focus on preparing key talking points. This gives you the structure you need while still allowing for natural conversation. One effective way to refine your delivery is to practice speaking naturally while using a teleprompter. It helps you stay organized without losing your genuine tone or connection.
Here’s how you can avoid sounding scripted during your video interview:
By treating the interview as a professional conversation rather than a performance, you’ll come across as more confident, authentic, and engaging. A flexible approach helps you connect better with the interviewer and adapt smoothly to follow-up questions or unexpected shifts in discussion.
Basic etiquette mistakes can seriously damage your chances, even if you perform well otherwise. In virtual interviews, these small errors are magnified.
Common etiquette pitfalls include:
Polish your virtual manners by pausing briefly before answering questions, silencing all devices and apps during the call, and following up promptly with a personalized thank-you note that reiterates your enthusiasm for the role.
Now that you understand what are some common mistakes to avoid in a video interview, it’s equally important to know what you should actively do to leave a lasting positive impression.
Here’s how to stand out:
Hiring managers increasingly rely on video interviews as a vital part of the recruitment process. While some candidates still feel uncomfortable speaking on camera, recruiters expect applicants to navigate virtual conversations with ease. As career strategist Hannah Morgan explains, video interviews offer an efficient and accessible way to connect with candidates, eliminating logistical hurdles like transportation and scheduling conflicts.
Because video interviews streamline the hiring process, recruiters view them as a necessary professional skill—not an optional one. Candidates who appear awkward, overly rehearsed, or distracted miss a valuable opportunity to make a strong first impression. Every aspect of the interaction, from technical setup to conversational tone, influences the interviewer’s perception.
Getting comfortable on camera isn’t just about answering questions correctly; it’s about projecting confidence, showcasing personality, and demonstrating adaptability—all from the convenience of your own space. Those who approach video interviews with the same level of preparation and professionalism as in-person meetings often stand out and significantly boost their chances of receiving a job offer.
Stay away from speaking negatively about former employers, oversharing personal information, or using overly casual language. Maintain a professional, focused tone throughout the conversation.
Logging in 10–15 minutes early is ideal. This provides a buffer for troubleshooting any last-minute technical issues and shows that you are punctual and dependable.
Always look into the camera lens when speaking. This simulates natural eye contact and helps build a stronger connection with your interviewer.
Mastering what are some common mistakes to avoid in a video interview requires careful preparation across multiple areas: technical setup, environment, appearance, body language, and etiquette.
By proactively addressing these elements, you increase your chances of delivering a confident, polished performance that leaves a positive and lasting impression. Treat every virtual meeting as you would an in-person interview—prepare thoroughly, stay engaged, and let your professionalism shine through.
If you’re serious about landing your next role, start applying these insights today. Small improvements can make a major difference in standing out among a competitive pool of candidates.
