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How to prepare for a video interview

The short answer

You do not need to memorise anything. The best interviews sound like a conversation, so we share the topics in advance, start with a chat off camera and ask simple questions one at a time. Retakes are normal, and the edit keeps your clearest answers.

WVFRM crew setting up an interview for Medibank

Why interviews carry the video

In a case study or testimonial, the person on camera is the proof. Viewers can tell within seconds whether someone is reading lines or speaking from experience.

Our job is to get real answers from real people, including people who have never been on camera and would rather not be.

Before the shoot

01

Topics, not a script

We send each person the themes we will cover a few days before, so nothing comes as a surprise. We ask them not to rehearse word for word.

02

The right people

We help you choose who to film. Someone who lived the story is usually better than the most senior person in the room.

03

What to wear

Plain, solid colours work best. We suggest avoiding fine stripes, small checks and large logos, and bringing a spare top.

04

A short call if needed

For nervous speakers or senior leaders we can run a short pre-interview call.

On the day

1

Coffee first

Every interview starts off camera with a chat and a run through the topics, so nerves settle before we record.

2

Set up around them

We light and frame the shot first, so the person only sits down once everything is ready.

3

One question at a time

We ask simple, open questions and follow up on what they say, the way a good conversation goes.

4

Answers in full sentences

We ask people to include the question in their answer ("What I liked about working with…"), because the interviewer's voice is usually cut.

5

As many takes as it takes

Stumbling over a sentence is normal. We simply ask again.

Autocue

Autocue is available for scripted pieces such as leadership messages, but most people sound more natural without it.

Example: Medibank

Behind the scenes of a WVFRM case study shoot for Medibank

We produce case study films about wellbeing for Medibank.

"WVFRM has become a trusted partner for our case study film content, helping us bring Medibank's wellbeing stories to life in a way that feels clear, authentic and aligned with our goals."

Annie Nguyen, Strategic Marketing Leader, Medibank

Read the case study

What we need from you

A list of people to interview, with their roles

Consent from each person to be filmed (we manage release forms, or use your organisation's own)

A quiet room on site, or we can hire a studio nearby

About 30 to 45 minutes per person, including the warm-up

FAQ

Interview preparation FAQs

Still have a question? Talk to our team

Do people need to learn a script?

No. For interviews we share the topics, not a script. Answers in their own words come across as far more believable.

What if someone freezes or makes a mistake?

It happens all the time. We pause, ask the question a different way and keep going. Mistakes never make the final cut.

What should people wear on camera?

Plain, solid colours and their usual work clothes. Avoid fine stripes, small patterns and large logos, and bring a spare top.

Can we see the questions before the shoot?

Yes. We send the topics and questions in advance so you can check them, and so the people being interviewed know what to expect.

Planning a case study or testimonial video?

Tell us who you would like to feature and we will plan interviews that feel easy for them.

Prefer to talk it through? Book a 30-minute call or phone us on (03) 9997 7085.

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