Whether you’re interviewing for an internship, a part-time job, or your first post-grad position, Zoom interviews have become the norm. While most students know the basics- dress appropriately, check your Wi-Fi, and minimize background noise- many still overlook small details that can make or break an interview. Here are some unique tips to ensure you BTHO your next online interview. 

1. Notify Housemates Beforehand (Yes, Even Your Pets)

Your roommates aren’t the only ones who need to know about your interview—your dog, cat, or chatty parrot does, too. Unexpected interruptions can derail your focus. Ensure all human and non-human housemates are aware of your time block. Consider placing a note on your door, muting notifications on shared devices, and ensuring your pets are settled. A scheduled walk or a favorite toy or treat can also prevent sudden barking or unexpected Zoom cameos.

2. Master the Art of the Pre-Interview Sound Check

Instead of just checking your mic and camera, start a Zoom meeting by yourself or a video recording on the device to record a quick introduction. Play it back to identify background hums, echoes, or low volume. This step helps catch audio issues you might not notice in a basic mic test.

3. Use Strategic Eye Contact

It’s tempting to stare at the person on your screen, but that can make you appear distracted. Instead, practice looking into the camera when speaking. This will mimic real-life eye contact and make you seem more engaged. You can even place a sticky note near the camera with a smiley face to remind yourself where to focus. 

4. Optimize Your Desktop View

If you need to share your screen, ensure your desktop is interview-ready. Close unnecessary tabs, hide personal files, and ensure any visible bookmarks or notifications are professional. An unexpected pop-up or a personal tab can be an embarrassing distraction that could derail a professional environment.

5. Perfect Your Lighting (Without Buying an Expensive Ring Light)

Good lighting doesn’t mean you need expensive equipment, so close that Amazon tab and use the resources around you. Position yourself facing a window for natural light. You can also use a desk lamp pointed at a blank wall behind your laptop to reflect even lighting onto yourself. Avoid sitting directly under overhead lights, which can create harsh shadows that might distract an interviewer or seem too casual.

6. Have a Low-Tech Backup Plan

Tech glitches happen even if you test it beforehand, and a strong candidate adapts. If your Wi-Fi drops, be prepared to dial in via phone. Send a quick email to the meeting organizer calmly explaining your situation and switch to option B. Keep the meeting link and passcode easily accessible—write it down or save it in a notes app—so you don’t waste time scrambling. This will make you look well-prepared and emphasize your ability to overcome problems.

7. Know Where to Look When Taking Notes

Taking notes during an interview is smart, but don’t let it break your flow. If you must glance away, do so without making it look like you are distracted. Position your notepad or notes document in line with your camera so it doesn’t seem like you’re looking down or distracted, and make sure you non-verbally acknowledge the speaker before looking down to write down anything.