17 Nov Zoom Media Interviews – (Part 2) What You Need To Know To Succeed

In the era of work-via-home or post-pandemic, most companies and employers are choosing to conduct interviews using video conference software, such as Zoom. Now, you’ve probably used Zoom already to talk to your friends and family members, but it’s totally a different story when you need to use it for a media interview.

We’ve compiled a list of tips for a great Zoom interview so you’ll be more prepared to win that dream media interview! Take a look:

Tip 1. Think About Your Appearance and Your Setting

First things first – find a quiet, undisturbed area, preferably with a natural light that’s in front of you. Ensure that the background is not too distracting and clean-looking. Next, it’s that age-old question – What to wear? Blocks of color are better than busy patterns. Simple tops or a button-down shirt and jacket are a winning combination. Powder your forehead and nose to avoid shiny looking skin. Also, check your equipment, test your sound, and clean the camera lens.

Tip 2. Look At The Camera

It’s a proven fact that people look at themselves during video calls, so the best thing to do is to hide your video from your display by selecting the option ‘Hide Myself’. Doing this will help you focus on people with whom you’re talking and make you look attentive and professional.

Tip 3. Be Aware Of Your Body Language

Maintain good posture and use non-verbal cues, like nodding or smiling when listening to the interviewer. Remember to have a natural smile even when you think you’re not on camera if they are including multiple experts in the interview (because you could in fact be on camera still and your facial expression will be seen).

Tip 4. Know Your Subject Matter

Review the talking points you’ll be discussing prior – but know it’s not a script and that things can change during the interview. Prepare your facts in advance. It’s okay to have written notes by your side and occasionally look at them; just don’t let them be seen.

Tip 5. Remove Distractions

Turn off your phone and other smart devices and put them away until after the interview. Turn off or block all notifications from email, social media sites or any other website that may distract you.

Tip 6. Use Your Laptop or Desktop

If possible, use your desktop or laptop instead of the Zoom mobile app. Computer cameras are more stable and allow your interviewer to record you in landscape mode. If you’re using a laptop (or a mobile phone), put it on a stack of books so you can be on eye level with the interviewer.

Tip 7. Avoid Sitting Too Close To Camera

For some peculiar reason, many people tend to sit right up in front of the camera. For the viewer, this creates a lopsided image of your face. Sitting too close or too far from your camera could make you look too small or too big. To be well proportioned, leave some space on the screen above your head and check that your shoulders and upper chest are visible.

Take Away

If you take some time to prepare, you will make the most of your coveted media interview opportunity. If you would like to learn more about this and other media relations tips, go to our blog page. If you would like a free consultation with NSPR, call us at (813) 865-3093.