- Make sure a light source is behind the camera on the computer. If it is behind you, you will not show up well.
- Make sure to find a pleasant background. You don’t want personal items, non-professional items, or a mess in the background. Plants, appropriate artwork, (well organized) bookshelves, etc., are great props.
- As much as possible, try to keep noise down. Put a blanket up against the bottom of the door to the room you are in, for example. Make sure the room you are in is not empty, that will result in echoes.
- “Fill up the frame.” Meaning you want the top of your head near the top of the screen, so you look full and confident in the shoot.
- Look into the camera, don’t look at the people on the screen. This is online “eye contact.”
- Dress professionally, like you would for an in-person interview.
- Practice and due a dry run with a friend or family members so you know your setup works.
Recommendations
- If possible, ethernet into the internet, don’t rely on wifi.
- Shut down all other applications and software packages so it does not slow down your connection/computer.
- Have your resume, cover letter, questions, etc., up on the screen/printed out/taped up behind the screen.
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