Getting ready for an important video conversation, whether a video podcast, a job interview or a virtual care visit. Suggestions from my work in media, coaching, communications, medicine and leadership.
Over the years, I’ve shared suggestions for being on camera with podcast guests, coaching clients and clinicians providing virtual care. Medicine taught me that we often assume people know things we consider simple. They may sit just outside someone’s realm of experience. Being comfortable on video is no exception.
I’ve been on both sides of these conversations: interviewing and being interviewed, hiring and applying for jobs, hosting podcasts and joining as a guest. A video conversation is the real conversation, not a stand-in for one. Camera position, lighting and sound deserve a little attention when it matters to you.
A video interview, appointment or recording is the meeting itself, not a rehearsal for one. The other person is forming impressions just as they would across a desk.
Join early enough to settle in, the way you would arrive before an in‑person conversation.
Turn on Do Not Disturb on your computer and phone, so alerts don’t chime or pop up while you are sharing your screen. Close other windows and tabs. People can tell when your eyes drift to another screen.
You should be looking straight ahead. Raise your laptop on a stable stand or a few books if needed. Looking slightly up into the camera is preferable to looking down.
Leave a little room above your head and include your shoulders. Sit where you can stay comfortable through the conversation.
Look at the camera as well as the person on screen. If their video window sits below the lens, move it closer to the camera when you can.
Try facing a window or using a lamp near the camera. Check the preview: can you see your face clearly?
A bright window behind you can leave your face in shadow. Tidy or blur the background, then check what remains visible.
If you wear glasses, look for glare. Try moving the light or adjusting its angle before changing anything else.
Close the door and windows. Fans, heating vents and appliances are easy to stop noticing, but the microphone still picks them up.
Hard walls and bare floors create echo. A rug, curtains, a bookshelf or upholstered furniture nearby will absorb sound.
Earbuds or headphones keep the other person’s voice from echoing back through your microphone. An external microphone placed close to you usually sounds better than the one built into a laptop.
Fine stripes and intricate patterns can produce a rippling or shimmering effect on camera, called moiré.
Check how your clothing and accessories look against the background. Notice whether jewelry makes noise when you move.
Wear something that reflects your personal style. If you use makeup, a light application of powder can reduce shine.
Sit in the same place, at a similar time of day, wearing your intended outfit.
Use the FaceTime camera or the “Meet Now” option on Teams to practice. Check the frame, the light and what sits behind you.
Record a short test and play it back. Listen for volume, echo, background noise and anything rubbing against the microphone.
The same suggestions as an eight-page guide you can print or send ahead to a guest, a candidate or a colleague.