Alright, video editors, listen up. Interviews might not be the most accurate way to predict your actual editing skills (because, let’s face it, no one can capture your editing prowess in 30 minutes), but if you want that gig, you’ve got to ace the interview.
So, here’s a guide to avoid looking like a rookie.
1. “Just be yourself”
Forget this advice. The “real you” can stay home. In an interview, you’re there to show your professional self—not the guy who talks endlessly about the movie you’re obsessed with. Interviews are a performance, so play the part. Know the rules, dress the part, and leave the chill vibe for your friends. Authenticity is overrated, trust me.
2. Misinterpreting the questions
Misunderstanding what’s being asked? That’s like cutting the wrong footage. If you’re not sure, take a second to process. Say something like, “Just to clarify, are you asking about my experience with X software or Y technique?” This gives the impression you’re paying attention, not just frantically trying to answer before the awkward silence kicks in.
3. Talking too much
Over-talking is a rookie mistake. Your editing skills might be top-tier, but if you ramble on about your “vision” or interrupt your interviewer, you’re just going to look unprepared and nervous. Keep your answers sharp, use the STAR method (Situation-Task-Action-Result), and keep it under 90 seconds. If they want more, they’ll ask. And if you’re cut off mid-sentence? Yeah, you’re probably talking too much.
4. Being too honest
Radical honesty? In an interview? No, thank you. No one needs to hear about how you procrastinate or the projects you’ve totally failed at. Frame your weaknesses carefully. Instead of saying, “I’m terrible with deadlines,” try, “I’ve learned to better manage my time with tools like project management software, which keeps me on track and organized.” You’re still being honest, just… smarter about it.
5. Boasting (excessively and unrealistically)
Bragging is fine if you back it up with proof. But don’t tell them you’re “the best editor ever” without showing some actual numbers or solid results. Instead of, “I made everything amazing,” say something like, “I increased video engagement by 25% through better pacing and sound design.” Confidence is cool, but over-confidence? It screams “overcompensating.”
6. Thinking content is everything
Sure, you might have an amazing reel, but if you don’t know how to deliver that reel with the right energy and passion, it’s not going to land. How you present yourself matters more than your technical skills—seriously. If you can speak clearly about your editing process and how it benefits the team, you’re golden.
7. Not asking questions
Leaving an interview without asking anything? Huge mistake. If you don’t have questions, it’s like showing up to a shoot without a shot list—awkward.
Ask things like, “What editing style works best for your brand?” or “What’s the biggest challenge the team faces with content?” It shows you’re invested and thinking about how you can add value. Just don’t ask, “When do I get a raise?” (because, uh, you don’t have the job yet).
Interviews are about showing you’re a good fit for the team, not just about your editing chops.
Nail the soft skills, avoid these common blunders, and you’ll be editing the next big project in no time.