Prepare your background

Set your laptop on your desk and open up your webcam (you can do this by launching your Zoom room or an app like Photobooth). Check out what the other person can see in your background. Make sure any laundry is put away; trash is thrown out; etc. If you are worried about showing your bedroom, try hanging a sheet behind you or moving your desk so that you can only see a clean wall.

Check your lighting

Look at yourself in the webcam: is there enough light to see you properly? Do you need to move a light closer so that it's easier to see you? Don't be afraid to move things around in your room.

Set-up your audio

Sound quality is incredibly important. There are two main components of good sound quality: microphone location and background noise.

You want your microphone to be as close as possible to your mouth. If possible, use bluetooth headphones like Airpods, or wired headphones with an attached microphone. Make sure the microphone is not hitting other objects, like earrings or rubbing against your shirt. You can also use a USB microphone. The microphone built into your computer is fine, as long as you don't have a lot of other audio happening around you.

Make sure there is no music playing. If you live in a noisy area; if there is construction happening, you might need to find another location.

Check your internet and test your technology

You probably already have a sense of whether you have a good internet connection or not. If you have a bad connection, consider using a wifi hotspot or finding another location. It is essential to be able to see and hear easily.

If you're not sure about your internet connection, you can run an internet speed test or run a test interview with a friend or family member.

Troubleshooting your technology during the interview:

• If your video or audio stops working: Before the interview, ask the interviewer for a phone number where you can reach them if you experience technical difficulties. If the video cuts out, call them at that number. Ask if you can continue the interview by phone or if you can reschedule.

• If noise interrupts the conversation: If noises (sirens, construction, etc.) interrupt your video interview, apologize for the interruption and ask for a few moments until the noise has subsided. You may want to mute the microphone if the noise is severe.