How to prepare for a recorded video interview

Recorded video interviews are now a common stage in graduate recruitment, but they can feel very different from speaking to an interviewer live.

You’re usually given a question on screen, a short amount of preparation time and then a limited time to record your answer. With nobody on the other side of the conversation, it can take some getting used to.

Here’s what we recommend doing beforehand:

• Get comfortable talking to a camera. Practise answering a few typical interview questions and record yourself doing it. Watching yourself back might feel uncomfortable, but it’s one of the best ways to spot whether you’re speaking too quickly, looking away from the camera or giving answers that are too long.
• Prepare examples, rather than scripts. Think about situations from university, work, volunteering, societies or other experiences that demonstrate your skills. Having these examples ready gives you something to draw from without making your answers sound rehearsed.
• Use your preparation time properly. If you get time before recording, quickly note the main points you want to cover rather than trying to write out a complete answer.
• Check your setup. Test your camera, microphone and internet connection beforehand. Find somewhere quiet, make sure you can be seen clearly and remove anything that's likely to distract you.
• Don't panic over a mistake. If you stumble over a word, you don't necessarily need to start again. Take a second, collect your thoughts and continue. A natural answer is usually better than trying to deliver something perfectly.

Most importantly, practise the format as well as your answers. The more familiar it feels talking to a camera, the easier it becomes to focus on what you actually want to say.