My Strategy for Acing Pre-Recorded Video Interviews for Grad Schemes

Hey everyone, Pre-recorded video interviews can feel a bit daunting, right? It's weird talking to a camera without any immediate feedback, but they're becoming super common for grad schemes and placements. I've done a few now, and I wanted to share what I've learned to help you all ace them! First off, **get the practical stuff sorted**. Before you even think about questions, make sure your tech is ready. Test your mic and camera, and find a quiet, well-lit spot where you won't be interrupted. I always try to make sure there's nothing distracting in the background. Dress as you would for a regular interview – it just helps you feel more professional and prepared, even if you're just talking to a screen. And here's a big one: *practise recording yourself*. It feels a bit cringe, but watching it back helps you spot things like talking too fast, not making 'eye contact' with the camera (instead of your own face on the screen!), or needing to take a breath. Get a friend or family member to watch it too for honest feedback. Then there are the **scenario-based questions**. These are often 'what would you do if X happened?' type questions, rather than asking for past experiences. The key here isn't necessarily having been in that exact situation, but showing how you *think* through a problem. I always try to break it down: identify the core issue, think about potential actions (and their pros/cons), and then consider who I'd involve or escalate to. Crucially, try to link your approach to the company's values. A quick look at their 'About Us' or 'Our Values' section on their website before the interview can give you clues on how they like to operate. They're looking for your genuine thought process, but also whether you'd be a good cultural fit. Finally, the **motivational questions** – these are your chance to shine! 'Why us?', 'Why this role?', 'What do you know about our work?' are almost guaranteed. Don't just regurgitate their website. Dig deeper! Look at industry news, their competitors, recent projects they've been involved in. What genuinely excites you about them? Connect their mission or products to your own interests or experiences. For instance, if they have a strong sustainability drive and you've been involved in an environmental society, talk about that link. It shows genuine interest and that you've done your homework. And don't worry if you don't have your entire career path mapped out. It's totally fine to say that a placement or grad scheme with them is part of your journey to explore options and gain specific experience. They know you're still learning! It takes practice, but getting these elements right can really make your application stand out. What are your biggest worries about pre-recorded video interviews?