Top 10 Mistakes Jobseekers Make in AI Video Interviews (And How to Avoid Them)

AI video interviews are no longer a novelty. Especially in tech-forward job markets like the U.S., they’re becoming a standard part of the hiring funnel.

So, learning to navigate this format can seriously boost your chances, especially if you're a student applying for internships, a recent grad going for your first job, or a professional exploring your next move.

But far too many jobseekers trip up, not because they lack skill, but because they’re unaware of what hiring teams are really looking for in these AI-scored evaluations.

If you're already practicing on platforms like SpectraSeek, an AI-powered video interview prep tool built for students and jobseekers, you’re one step ahead.

Now, let’s make sure you're not unknowingly sabotaging your chances, and avoid these all-too-common mistakes.

1. Treating it like a Zoom call

Mistake - Showing up casually like it's a video chat with friends; rambling responses, hoodie on, and zero prep.

Why it matters - Unlike live interviews, these responses are timed, recorded, and often analyzed by algorithms first. There's no back-and-forth or second chances.

Fix - Prep like it’s a real interview. Set up your space, dress the part (at least from the waist up), and rehearse your answers ahead of time using tools like SpectraSeek to build confidence.

✅ Tip - Professional attire isn’t just for show. It improves how you feel, and how you perform on camera.

2. Ignoring the timer

Mistake - Speaking too briefly or rambling on because you didn’t keep an eye on the clock.

Why it matters - Going over time may cut off your best points. Ending too early may make you seem underprepared.

Fix - Most platforms give you 1–3 minutes per question. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to organize your answers, and rehearse them so they fit comfortably within the time limit.

3. Looking at yourself instead of the camera

Mistake - Constantly checking your own image while talking, instead of looking into the camera.

Why it matters - Eye contact matters – yes, even in a pre-recorded setting. Looking into the lens gives the feeling of connection and confidence.

Fix - Put a tiny sticker or post-it near the camera lens to remind yourself where to look. It’s a small tweak that makes a big difference.

4. Poor lighting and background setup

Mistake - Recording in a dark room, with cluttered bookshelves or laundry piles in the background.

Why it matters - Visual distractions can affect how professional, and how focused, you appear, even subconsciously.

Fix - Face a window for natural light or use a lamp with soft lighting. Keep your background simple and tidy. You don’t need a designer setup - just a clean, quiet space.

💡 According to Harvard Business Review, visual distractions can subconsciously bias how recruiters rate your professionalism.

5. Skipping practice sessions

Mistake - Thinking you'll "just wing it" when the time comes.

Why it matters - The pressure of a timed, AI video interview can catch you off guard - even if you're usually a great speaker.

Fix - Simulate the real thing. Platforms like SpectraSeek allow you to practice under realistic conditions, giving you feedback on timing, clarity, and delivery, so you’re not winging it on the big day.

6. Reading off a script

Mistake - Delivering answers like you're reading from a teleprompter - eyes shifting, voice monotone, energy flat.

Why it matters - Recruiters and AI alike can pick up on unnatural delivery. It comes off as stiff or rehearsed, not authentic.

Fix - Ditch the full script. Use bullet points or keywords to guide you instead. Speak naturally, like you’re talking to someone, and focus on clarity, not perfection.

7. Not answering the actual question

Mistake - Giving a great answer - just not to the question that was asked.

Why it matters - Though you might get away with it if you’re talking face to face with a recruiter, AI doesn’t care much for charisma. Off-topic responses signal poor listening or lack of attention to detail, which can cost you.

Fix - Read the question carefully. If it's about teamwork, don’t talk about a solo win. Use a structured approach like STAR to stay focused and relevant.

8. Skipping the tech check

Mistake - Waiting until the last minute to test your mic, camera, or browser - only to hit a glitch mid-recording.

Why it matters - Tech issues can disrupt your flow and make your answers hard to hear or see.

Fix - Run a full tech check. Use headphones, close background apps, and check your video quality. Practice using automated video interview platforms or try recording in an incognito window to test your setup.

9. Neglecting body language

Mistake - Slouching, fidgeting, or showing zero facial expression throughout the answer.

Why it matters - Nonverbal cues play a big role in how confident and engaged you appear, even in a solo video.

Fix - Sit upright, smile (naturally), and use hand gestures to emphasize key points (without overdoing it). Even AI models evaluate body language markers in their scoring systems.

10. Ending without a closing impact

Mistake - Wrapping up an answer with a shrug or a mumbled, “Yeah, that’s about it…”

Why it matters - A weak finish can dull the impact of an otherwise great answer. Ending strong leaves a lasting impression.

Fix - Sum up your answer with one strong closing sentence, then pause and smile. No need to overthink it - just make it clear and confident.

It's not just what you say, it's how you say it

AI-powered video interviews can feel weird at first. You're talking to a screen, alone, with no interviewer nodding along.

But these AI interviews are becoming a staple in hiring pipelines, because they’re efficient, consistent, and fair when done right.

The good news? With tools like SpectraSeek, you can practice in a low-pressure environment, get instant feedback, and sharpen your delivery so that when the real interview hits, you’re more than ready.