Guides

Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Video Interview

By
Teleprompter.com team
May 26, 2025
·
6
minutes
Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Video Interview

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.

Why Video Interviews Demand a Higher Level of Preparation

Video Interview

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.

What Are Some Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Video Interview?

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.

Poor Technical Setup

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:

  • Test your webcam, microphone, and internet connection at least 24 hours before your interview.
  • Conduct a mock interview to see how you appear and sound to others.
  • Have a backup plan, such as a mobile hotspot, in case your Wi-Fi becomes unstable.

These precautions show that you take the process seriously and respect the interviewer's time.

Unprofessional Backgrounds and Lighting

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:

  • Choose a clean, neutral background without too many personal items or decorations.
  • Position yourself facing a window with natural light if possible, or use a soft ring light to illuminate your face clearly.
  • Ensure that the background is free from movement, pets, or household noise.

The goal is to direct the interviewer’s attention to you—not your surroundings.

Inappropriate Dress Code

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.

Lack of Eye Contact and Poor Body Language

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:

  • Position your webcam at eye level and maintain steady eye contact with the camera lens when speaking.
  • Sit up straight with your shoulders relaxed.
  • Keep hand gestures controlled and avoid excessive fidgeting.

Being Too Scripted or Robotic

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:

  • Outline key ideas, not entire paragraphs, to keep your speaking style conversational.
  • Practice delivering your answers aloud, paying attention to natural pauses, emphasis, and tone variation.
  • Use a teleprompter strategically to guide your points without reading word-for-word.
  • Record practice sessions and watch them back to identify where you sound too mechanical.
  • Allow for spontaneity—respond in real time rather than relying solely on rehearsed answers.

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.

Neglecting Interview Etiquette

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:

  • Speaking over the interviewer, often due to not accounting for slight audio delays.
  • Leaving phone notifications or messaging alerts active, which can interrupt your focus and irritate the interviewer.
  • Failing to send a follow-up thank-you email after the interview.

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.

Proven Strategies to Stand Out in a Video Interview

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:

  • Prepare a tech checklist before the interview: Check your equipment, update your software, and ensure your internet connection is strong.
  • Create a professional backdrop: Your environment should reinforce your serious attitude toward the interview.
  • Practice with real conditions: Mock interviews conducted via the same platform the real interview will use can highlight unexpected issues.
  • Stay poised during disruptions: Minor technical hiccups can happen. Showing patience and professionalism under pressure can make a strong positive impact.

Recruiter Perspectives on Video Interview Mistakes

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.

FAQs About Common Video Interview Mistakes

What should I avoid saying in a video interview?

Stay away from speaking negatively about former employers, oversharing personal information, or using overly casual language. Maintain a professional, focused tone throughout the conversation.

How early should I log in for a video interview?

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.

Should I look directly at the camera or the screen?

Always look into the camera lens when speaking. This simulates natural eye contact and helps build a stronger connection with your interviewer.

Key Takeaways: Common Mistakes to Avoid in a Video Interview

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.

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