Tech Setup Checklist
| Item | Spec |
|---|
| Internet | Wired ethernet preferred — 10+ Mbps upload. Hotspot backup ready |
| Camera | External webcam if laptop is low-res. Eye level, arms-length distance |
| Microphone | External mic or headset — built-in mics pick up room echo |
| Lighting | Ring light or window in front. Avoid overhead-only (casts shadows) |
| Software | Zoom/Teams/Meet updated. Test screen sharing, audio, and camera |
Coding Interview Screen Share
| Setup | Why |
|---|
| Use a clean IDE | VS Code with minimal plugins, large font — no personal notes visible |
| Close everything else | No Slack, email, or notification popups during screen share |
| Dark mode + large font | Easier for interviewer to read on their end |
| Share just the window | Not entire screen — protects privacy if you alt-tab |
Handling Technical Issues
| Issue | Response |
|---|
| Video freezes | "I think my video froze — could you repeat the last part?" Off camera → on |
| Audio cutting out | Switch to phone audio as backup — have phone number ready |
| Screen share fails | Have a collaborative editor ready (codeshare.io, Google Docs) |
Environment Setup
| Element | Fix |
|---|
| Background noise | Close windows, AC off, pets in another room, door closed |
| Interruptions | Sign on door, notify housemates, phone on DND |
| Virtual background | Test beforehand — blur or neutral background if room is messy |
Pro Tip: Do a tech dry run the day before: same computer, same location, same time of day. Internet speed, background noise, and lighting all change throughout the day.