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Lights, camera, success - three tips for video interviews
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Lights, camera, success - three tips for video interviews

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In an ever-changing media landscape, one where healthcare reporters are stretched increasingly thin, in-person, on-camera interviews are exceptionally rare. Even presidential candidates, who traditionally thrived on in-person rallies and press events, are now turning to video interviews for convenience and to overcome scheduling challenges. For example, many candidates in recent election cycles have opted for virtual town halls or Zoom interviews with media outlets, allowing them to engage with a broader audience without the logistical demands of traveling from state to state.

Proper preparation can be the difference between a polished performance and a less-than-professional first impression. Here are three tips from PR professionals to help ensure the next video interview runs smoothly, focusing on the right equipment, setting, and personal presentation.

Prep your gear and avoid the glitch!

Technical difficulties create unnecessary stress. Fortunately, most of them can be prevented or minimized with proper preparation. A few days before your scheduled video interview be sure to check your equipment, ensure your camera, microphone, and internet connection are working properly. Install and update the software for whatever platform you’ll be using (Zoom, Teams, etc) and test the microphone to ensure audio is clear and free of echo. As part of your preparations, conduct a mock interview. This will not only test your technology but also give you a chance to rehearse your answers, check your lighting, and get comfortable with making eye contact with the camera. Having a friend or colleague simulate the interview process can help you identify any issues early and make any necessary adjustments before the real thing.

Also, don’t forget to charge the headset or microphone, or replace the batteries if they are running low. 

Having a friend or colleague simulate the interview process can help you identify any issues early and make any necessary adjustments before the real thing.

 

Perfect your posture 

Whether standing or sitting during an interview, stance matters.  If sitting, avoid swivel stools, rolling chairs, or any ‘moving’ seat that may amplify motion. It’s distracting and can make you appear nervous. When it comes to eye contact, it’s tempting to focus on your reflection on the screen, but for virtual ‘eye contact,’ always look directly at the camera. This helps create a more engaging and authentic connection with the interviewer. Also, pay attention to your background. Choose a clean, professional setting that's free of distractions. Avoid clutter or personal items in the frame, as a tidy background will help maintain focus on you and your message.

The importance of proper lighting

Who doesn’t want to shine on camera? Proper lighting– whether natural or artificial–can make a big difference. It’s best to face natural light from a window rather than having it behind, as this can create dark shadows on the screen. If natural light isn't available (or reliable on a cloudy day), use soft, warm lighting to illuminate the screen —a portable LED light is a great option. 

 

Corrie Fisher

Corrie's healthcare expertise spans more than a decade. She has held several in-house positions, such as managing communication programs to support clinical trial research at Mass General Brigham. During the latter part of her career, Corrie has worked on the agency side representing healthcare systems, such as HCA Healthcare, and health technology companies of all growth stages to help amplify their stories through PR efforts

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Proper lighting– whether natural or artificial–can make a big difference. It’s best to face natural light from a window rather than having it behind, as this can create dark shadows on the screen.

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