January 12, 2026, 7:03 am | Read time: 4 minutes
Online meetings via webcam have become standard, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic, even in professional settings. Many companies are increasingly conducting virtual job interviews. But what happens when the technology fails? TECHBOOK offers guidance.
Job interviews via camera offer several advantages for both applicants and companies:
- Expensive travel costs are eliminated.
- Virtual job interviews take less time.
- The interview can be conducted in a familiar environment.
- Finding a suitable time is easier.
- Necessary meeting software is usually available for free.
However, online interviews often reveal varying technical skills among participants. This can lead to delays and interruptions because what is said is difficult or impossible to understand due to connection issues or poor microphone quality. Additionally, an applicant struggling with technical problems may appear unprofessional. Those who handle the situation clumsily may reduce their chances of getting the job.
Basic Preparation
Whether for a virtual or in-person interview, one should always be well-prepared:
- Be punctual: There is no difference between analog and digital here. Being late will be penalized by the recruiter. Arriving late to a virtual job interview is tantamount to ending all career dreams. Someone else will definitely get the position.
- Be prepared: Have all necessary documents at hand and don’t forget a glass of water in case your voice fails or you get a frog in your throat.
- Dress neatly: Even if you’re sitting in your own home, forgo the usual sweatpants. Dress appropriately according to the company philosophy of your future employer, as if you were meeting your new colleagues in person. Avoid bright colors or flashy clothing.
- Keep it tidy: Even though most video conferencing programs now offer perfect background images, ensure a tidy background. This strengthens mental preparation and prevents awkward situations if the virtual background suddenly reveals the room behind you.
- Stay calm: Avoid exaggerated facial expressions or gestures. Especially in a virtual job interview, hand movements or a raised eyebrow at the wrong moment can be particularly noticeable due to the camera focus.
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Technical Preparation
In addition to basic behavioral rules, an applicant should also prepare technically. Those who feel technically confident can handle critical situations with the necessary composure.
- Test all technology beforehand: Be sure to test the microphone, camera, and video conferencing software used for the job interview before the meeting. Ideally, conduct a test call with a friend or family member the day before.
- Plan B: If the main device has technical issues, have a backup device ready, such as a laptop. Ensure the technology on this device has also been tested in advance.
Oops, Audio or Video Disruption. Now What?
Despite thorough preparation on all levels, it can still happen: The internet connection fails, the microphone only transmits every third word, or your head appears as a frozen still life on the recruiter’s screen.
Such things can always happen. Therefore, no one should lose their composure. Similar problems could occur on the company’s side. Recruiters plan for technical issues. This alone does not mean the end of all job prospects. The question is how a person reacts in such an unpredictable situation.
- Address the problem: Open communication shows a solution-oriented approach. If the technology acts up, a brief apology helps. It’s best to address the issue directly, for example, “My video is freezing,” or conversely, “I can’t hear you well right now.”
- Offer alternatives: If technical difficulties cannot be quickly resolved, it helps to ask for a break or offer alternatives. Now the backup laptop could come into play. Or if network issues make another video call impossible, simply arrange a phone call. This way, an applicant demonstrates competence through confident handling even in critical situations.
- Politeness always wins: Once all parties have agreed on an alternative, an applicant should definitely thank the future employer for their understanding. Politeness always earns points in a job interview.
If your technology fails during a virtual job interview, take a deep breath first. Technical problems do not mean the end of all hopes. On the contrary, those who react confidently, flexibly, and pleasantly in such a situation may even become more attractive for the position.