Pandemic Video Interview Prep Checklist

COVID-19 has solidified Video Interviews as standard practice now and moving forward.  Zoom, Teams, and other video technologies have become commonplace  – however many of us are not as proficient at these as we think.  Here are some of the techniques we prep candidates for in our office.

Vincent Scaramuzzo, President, Ed-Exec, Inc.


  • Make sure to download the App and appropriate software far in advance of your interview date.
  • Check your Wi-Fi connection and makes sure the speed is adequate for a video call.
  • Close all other apps and alerts prior to your interview so full computer or phone resources are dedicated to the call.
  • Please use a virtual background (we recommend “blur” when available).
  • Use an earpiece/mic when available to avoid background noise and echo.
  • Do a test run with your recruiter or a friend to make sure everything is working right.
  • Check your lighting. Make sure people can see your face and there are no distracting shadows.  Zoom has some great “touch-up” and mirror features I recommend utilizing.
  • Makes sure you won’t be interrupted by people walking in on your meeting.
  • Make a “cheat sheet”.  Put notes out of view with people’s bio’s and other important information.
  • As with ANY interview have a “summary close” ready – aka as asking for the job.  Close them!

Vincent Scaramuzzo is the President of Ed-Exec, Inc. A leading Education Executive Search Firm. He is also a contributing author to various education publications regarding education recruiting. As a specialist in the education field for over a decade, Scaramuzzo works nationally. He can be contacted at vincent@ed-exec.com 860-781-7641.