A video interview feels shorter and more relaxed than meeting in person, but companies take it just as seriously. And a technical hiccup can overshadow even your best answer. Here is your checklist.
Tech
1. Test the platform beforehand
Invitations come via Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet or Webex. Open the link the day before, install the app if needed and make a quick test call with someone.
2. Fix your display name
Your screen should show your first and last name – not "iPhone von Ali" or a nickname.
3. Secure your connection
Use a network cable if you can and pause big downloads at home. Keep your phone's hotspot ready as a backup.
4. Use a headset
A wired or good wireless headset cuts echo and background noise a lot. Being easy to understand is half the battle.
Camera, light and background
5. Camera at eye level
Put your laptop on a few books. A camera looking up at you is unflattering and makes eye contact impossible.
6. Light from the front
Face the window rather than sitting with your back to it. In the evening, a desk lamp lighting your face is enough.
7. A calm background
A tidy room or a plain wall is ideal. Blurring the background is fine – funny virtual backgrounds are not.
During the interview
8. Look into the camera
When you speak, look into the camera rather than at the face on your screen – that's what eye contact looks like on the other end. While listening you can look at the screen.
9. Notes yes, reading no
Keywords at the edge of your screen are fine. Reading out whole sentences is obvious – notes are only a reminder.
10. Turn off notifications
Mute email, messenger and calendar alerts. If you're asked to share your screen, tidy your desktop and close private tabs.
11. Stay calm if the connection drops
Rejoin straight away; if that fails, send a short email. Note your contact person's phone number beforehand.
Time zones and recorded interviews
12. Check the time difference
If you join from abroad, convert the time carefully. The time in the invitation is usually German time (CET/CEST). Germany switches to summer time from late March to late October – many countries don't, so the difference can change during the year.
Some large companies use recorded video interviews (zeitversetztes Videointerview): nobody is on the other side, you answer questions shown on screen within a time limit and record yourself. The same rules apply. There is usually a practice question – always use it.
Useful German phrases
- Können Sie mich gut hören? – Can you hear me well?
- Die Verbindung ist leider abgebrochen. Ich wähle mich sofort neu ein. – The connection dropped, I'm rejoining right away.
- Entschuldigung, Sie waren kurz nicht zu hören. Könnten Sie die Frage wiederholen? – Sorry, I couldn't hear you for a moment. Could you repeat the question?
- Darf ich kurz meinen Bildschirm teilen? – May I share my screen?
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear for a video interview?+
What you would wear in person – all of it, not just the top half. You might have to stand up. Busy patterns flicker on camera; plain colours look calmer.
Can I join a video interview on my phone?+
Yes, but a laptop is better. If you use your phone, stand it firmly, use landscape mode and plug in the charger.
Can I re-record an answer in a recorded video interview?+
That depends on the platform and the company's settings. Often there's a practice question and a limited number of retakes. Read the instructions carefully before you start.
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