Interview Type: Recorded 

A professional backdrop makes a strong first impression. Spend time preparing your space. 

Lighting: 

• Position your camera so it’s at eye level when you sit 

• Ensure the light source is in front of you, not behind you (backlighting creates silhouettes) 

• Use a simple desk lamp as your primary light source 

• Turn on room lights and avoid glare on your monitor 

• Close windows if outdoor light is creating harsh shadows 

• Never use your monitor as your light source 

Background: 

• Sit in front of a clean, neutral wall (solid colors work best) or use a virtual background in Zoom or Teams 

• Remove clutter from the desk/area visible in frame 

• Make sure your space looks professional and tidy—it reflects on you 

• Avoid anything controversial or distracting 

Audio: 

• Turn off all appliances that might create noise (fans, AC, dishwasher) 

• Find a quiet room where you won’t be interrupted 

• Tell household members you’re recording and ask them not to disturb you 

• Silence your phone 

• Close room windows 

Technical setup: 

• Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection beforehand 

• Ensure you have good webcam quality—use a laptop camera rather than a phone when possible 

• Allot yourself an hour in this space so you can record multiple takes if needed 

• Have a glass of water within reach but out of frame 

If you receive questions in advance, this is your advantage—use it. 

Research and practice: 

• Do thorough company and role research 

• Write down 3-4 key talking points for each question 

• Practice saying your answer out loud multiple times (not word-for-word memorization) 

• Record yourself answering and watch it back to catch filler words, rushed pacing, or stilted delivery 

Develop your approach: 

• Focus on key bullet points rather than writing full paragraphs 

• Place these notes on a sticky note on your monitor or taped on the wall in your camera view 

• Reference your notes naturally—don’t stare at them 

• Avoid looking scripted or robotic 

Sound natural: 

The biggest mistake candidates make is sounding like they memorized an answer. Instead: 

• Vary your pacing and emphasis 

• Pause between thoughts 

• Let your personality show through 

• If you stumble slightly but recover, that’s often better than a perfectly wooden delivery 

Treat it like a real interview: 

• Dress professionally as you would for an in-person interview 

• Sit up straight with good posture 

• Make eye contact with the camera, not the screen or notes 

• Smile and show warmth—it comes through on camera 

• Use hand gestures naturally (they look better than rigid arms) 

Manage your time: 

• Know how much time you have per question 

• Don’t rush—pauses are fine and often better than rambling 

• Aim for complete answers that aren’t overly long (1-2 minutes per answer is typical) 

• If you go slightly over, that’s usually acceptable 

Handle mistakes: 

• If you misspeak or want to redo something, pause, take a breath, and start the answer again 

• Most recording platforms let you re-record at least once 

• A few natural mistakes are less bad than a stiff, overly rehearsed delivery 

Show your research: 

• Mention specific things about the company that appeal to you 

• Reference the job description and connect your skills to their needs 

• Ask thoughtful questions if the platform allows 

Pre-recorded interviews typically ask: 

• Tell me about yourself 

• Why are you interested in this company/role? 

• What are your strengths and how do they apply to this role? 

• Tell me about a challenge you overcame (behavioral question) 

• Why should we hire you? 

• Do you have any questions for us? 

These are standard questions—prepare S-T-A-R-B stories and your research beforehand.

• Review your recording before submitting to catch any issues 

• Submit on time if there’s a deadline 

Pre-recorded interviews seem impersonal, but they have some advantages: 

• You can research more thoroughly 

• You can practice and re-record until you’re confident 

• You can set up an ideal environment 

• You have time to think rather than being put on the spot 

Use these advantages. Most candidates rush through or try to be overly polished. Authenticity, preparation, and genuine interest stand out.