Winning Edge

#28 4 Keys to Zoom Interview Success

Commonwealth Partners

Since 2020, local news organizations have increasingly conducted interviews via Zoom. 

To improve your look on Zoom, focus on:
  1. Lighting
     - Use three-point lighting: two adjustable LED lights on either side of the camera and one background light
     - Fine-tune brightness with dimmable lights
  2. Camera
     - Position camera slightly above eye level (3-6 inches)
     - Use a laptop camera or pair a phone camera with a computer
  3. Sound
     - Use a dedicated microphone (e.g., Audio Technica AT2020) for crisp, clear audio
     - Wear in-ear headphones to prevent interference and hide cord with athletic tape
  4. Background
     - Choose a neat, mildly interesting, but not distracting background
     - Avoid windows behind you, keep them in front

Test your setup with a friend or staff member 10 minutes before the interview to adjust as needed

For more tips on mastering your Zoom interviews, refer to the accompanying one-page PDF.

Winning Edge gives you the tools you need to lead and influence in the political and policy arenas. Every other week, Winning Edge releases short (approximately 5-minute) spots—or “snacks”—focused on one of four areas: fundraising, media, policy, or persuasion.

For more, visit our website: www.thecommonwealthpartners.com