Real tips. No fluff. Just what works when you’re face-to-screen with your next client.
Freelancing means freedom: no commute, no dress code, no boss breathing down your neck. But when that calendar ping says “Video Interview with Client in 5 mins,” it’s time to switch modes. You’re not just a lone wolf anymore, you’re screen-to-screen with someone deciding if they can trust you with their money, project, and time.
And yeah, video interviews can be awkward. The delay. The weird eye contact. The background noise you swore wouldn’t happen. But here’s the thing: they’re also a huge opportunity.
A video interview is your moment to show up sharp, prove you’re a pro, and lock in that gig, without needing to hop on a plane or put on real shoes.
The barrier to entry is low. The bar for standing out? Surprisingly easy to clear.
Here’s how to show up like a pro and turn that awkward screen time into your next paid gig:
1. Prep Like It’s Game Day
Yes, it’s a video interview. Yes, you’re still at home. No, that doesn’t mean you wing it.
- Do your homework. Know who you’re talking to. Spend 10 minutes on their site, read their latest blog post, and understand what they do.
- Tailor your answers. Don’t just run through your greatest hits. Speak to their needs.
- Get in the zone. Don’t roll out of bed and hit “Join.” Stretch. Breathe. Remember: you’re interviewing them too.
- Practice out loud. Especially the classics: “Tell me about yourself,” “What’s your workflow,” and “How do you handle deadlines?”
"Freelancers who treat interviews with the same professionalism as full-time roles are far more likely to land repeat clients and high-value gigs". - Upwork Career Tips
2. Tech-Proof Your Setup
Nothing tanks a first impression like glitchy audio or a “Can you hear me?” loop.
- Test everything. Camera, mic, speakers, the video app, run a test call ahead of time. Ideally with a real human.
- Secure your connection. Wi-Fi sketchy? Plug-in via Ethernet or tether to your phone. Have a backup ready.
- Fix your lighting. Face a window. No overhead dungeon lighting. Use a lamp if needed, soft and bright > harsh and shadowy.
- Frame your camera. Eye-level. Centered. Shoulders up. Stack books under your laptop if you have to.
- Clean your background. Your space speaks before you do.
“A cluttered or distracting background can diminish your credibility. Keep it simple, clean, and professional.” - Harvard Business Review
3. Look Alive on Camera
Time to stop looking like a tired freelancer and start looking like someone they want to work with.
- Dress the part. Clean and structured. Business casual at least. And yes, wear pants!
- Make eye contact. Look into the camera when speaking. Not on the screen. Not at your face.
- Use body language. Sit up. Nod. Smile. Use your hands if that’s your thing, but keep them in frame.
- Watch your voice. Don’t mumble or speed-run your answers. Smile while you talk, it changes your tone.
- Screen sharing? Prep it. Have your deck or portfolio clean and queued up. Silence Slack pings.
"Maintaining eye contact by looking into the camera, not at the screen, helps recreate the feeling of a real conversation and makes you appear more trustworthy.” - Forbes
4. Soft Skills = Secret Sauce
Freelancing is 80% knowing your craft. The other 20%? Making people feel like you’re someone who gets it.
- Be concise. Don’t ramble. Clear beats clever.
- Tell stories. Don’t just say “I’m reliable.” Tell the 90-second story about saving a launch when a client ghosted.
- Show real interest. If the project sounds dope, say that. People hire freelancers who want to be there.
- Listen actively. Don’t interrupt. Nod. Pause before you answer. Repeat key points back to show you’re tracking.
- Ask smart questions. Timelines, metrics, and collaboration style. Clients love it when you think beyond the scope.
“Interviewers remember stories, not bullet points. Candidates who illustrate their skills with relevant examples are consistently more compelling.” - LinkedIn Talent Blog
5. Don’t Get Tripped Up
Last-minute tips to avoid rookie mistakes:
- Don’t show up late. Log in 3–5 minutes early.
- Don’t blame your cat/kid/nephew for chaos. Control your space.
- Don’t multitask. Close tabs. Silence your phone. No notifications.
- Don’t stare at your face. Hide self-view if needed.
- Don’t forget your rate. Be ready if money comes up. Have a number. Have a reason.
Final Checklist
- Camera + mic tested
- Background clean/quiet
- Lighting good
- Outfit chosen (and pants on)
- Resume/portfolio ready
- Talking points + questions noted
- Joined meeting early
- Brain turned on
- Confidence activated
Conclusion
Video interviews are part performance, part tech demo, and part therapy session. But for freelancers, they’re one of the most high-leverage moments in your pipeline. It’s where strangers become clients.
Where a 30-minute call turns into a 3-month retainer or full-time gig
And the truth? Most people half-ass them, to be honest. They don’t prep. They wing it. They let bad lighting or a choppy mic ruin what should’ve been a win.
Which is exactly why you won’t.
You’ve already got the skills, this guide gives you the delivery!
Prep with purpose. Show up like someone they want to work with.
And when that call end? You won’t just feel good about it.
You’ll be waiting for the “Let’s move forward” email.
Go get the bag!
