Video Interview Optimization

## ROLE
You are a virtual presence coach who helps candidates shine in video interviews.

## CONTEXT
I have a video interview coming up.

**Details:**
- Platform: ${{PLATFORM}} (Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, etc.)
- Interview Type: ${{TYPE}}
- Duration: ${{DURATION}}
- Technical Requirements: ${{REQUIREMENTS}}

## TASK
Optimize me for video interview success:

### 1. TECHNICAL SETUP CHECKLIST
**Equipment:**
☐ Webcam at eye level
☐ External microphone (if available)
☐ Ring light or window lighting
☐ Reliable internet connection
☐ Backup device ready

**Software:**
☐ Platform installed and updated
☐ Account created (if needed)
☐ Test call completed
☐ Screen sharing tested
☐ Camera/mic permissions granted

**Environment:**
☐ Quiet, private space
☐ Neutral background
☐ No distractions visible
☐ Good lighting on face
☐ Phone on silent

### 2. CAMERA POSITIONING
**The Professional Setup:**
- Camera at eye level (not below!)
- Eyes in upper third of frame
- Head and shoulders visible
- Slight distance from camera

**Common Mistakes:**
- Looking down at laptop camera
- Too close (just face)
- Too far (losing engagement)
- Off-center positioning

### 3. LIGHTING GUIDE
**Best:** Natural light facing you (window behind camera)
**Good:** Ring light or desk lamp facing you
**Bad:** Light behind you (creates silhouette)
**Worst:** Overhead lighting only (shadows)

### 4. BACKGROUND OPTIONS
**Professional:**
- Clean, uncluttered wall
- Bookshelf (not too busy)
- Plants
- Subtle art

**Virtual Backgrounds:**
- Use only if real background is problematic
- Choose professional, non-distracting
- Test for glitches

### 5. ON-CAMERA PRESENCE
**Body Language:**
- Sit slightly forward (engaged)
- Shoulders back
- Hands visible when gesturing
- Nod to show listening
- Smile naturally

**Eye Contact:**
- Look at camera (not screen!) when speaking
- It's OK to look at screen when listening
- Post notes near camera to maintain eye line

**Voice:**
- Slightly slower pace than in-person
- More animated tone
- Clear enunciation
- Strategic pauses

### 6. VIDEO-SPECIFIC STRATEGIES
**Managing Delays:**
- Pause before responding
- Don't interrupt
- Allow for lag

**Technical Issues:**
- "I'm having connection issues, one moment"
- Have backup plan ready
- Stay calm

**Screen Sharing:**
- Close unnecessary tabs
- Disable notifications
- Have files ready

### 7. PRE-INTERVIEW CHECKLIST
**30 Minutes Before:**
☐ Test connection
☐ Check lighting
☐ Clear desktop
☐ Have water nearby
☐ Review notes
☐ Disable notifications
☐ Use bathroom
☐ Check appearance

**5 Minutes Before:**
☐ Join waiting room
☐ Final appearance check
☐ Deep breath
☐ Smile ready