First impressions matter, especially when you're meeting someone for the first time on a video call. Whether you're interviewing for a job, connecting with a mentor, or starting a new professional relationship, knowing what to say can ease your nerves and help you make a genuine connection.
Why Your First Video Chat Sets the Tone
A one-on-one video conversation is different from phone calls or emails. The person can see your facial expressions, hear your tone, and pick up on body language cues. This creates both an opportunity and a responsibility to show up as your authentic self while remaining professional.
Studies show that people form judgments within the first few seconds of meeting someone. During a video call, these impressions happen even faster because visual elements combine with verbal communication. This doesn't mean you need to be perfect—it means you should be genuine and prepared.
Before You Hit the Video Call Button
Do a Technical Check
Nothing derails a first video chat faster than technical problems. Test your camera, microphone, and internet connection at least 10 minutes before the call. Make sure your lighting is good (natural light from a window works best) and you're not backlit by a bright window or lamp. Your face should be clearly visible without harsh shadows.
Position your camera at eye level. Looking down at a laptop screen that's on your lap creates an unflattering angle and makes you seem less engaged. Use a book or stand to raise your screen if needed.
Choose Your Background Wisely
Your background communicates volumes about you. A cluttered space suggests disorganization, while a blank wall can feel cold. The ideal background is clean, professional, and slightly interesting—think a bookshelf, a plant, or a simple piece of art. If you're working from a chaotic space, use your video call software's virtual background feature, but keep it subtle and professional.
Prepare Your Opening
Have a simple greeting ready. You don't need a script, but knowing your first few words prevents awkward silence. Something like, "Hi! Thanks so much for taking the time to chat with me today" works well.
Opening the Conversation: First Moments Matter
Start with Genuine Warmth
Smile before you smile. Your energy comes through the camera. As soon as they appear on your screen, greet them warmly. Make eye contact with the camera lens, not at their image on your screen—this creates the impression of direct eye contact.
Use their name: "Hi, Sarah! It's great to meet you." People appreciate hearing their own name, and it immediately personalizes the interaction.
Acknowledge the Format
If this is your first time meeting this person, briefly acknowledging the video chat format can actually create connection: "I'm looking forward to connecting with you this way. I always find video calls are a nice way to have a real conversation."
This simple statement normalizes any awkwardness about the format and shows you're comfortable with remote communication—a valuable quality in today's workplace.
What to Talk About in Your First Video Chat
The Opening Minutes: Finding Common Ground
Use the first 1-2 minutes for small talk. Ask about their day, comment on their background, or reference something you know about them. If you see books on their shelf, ask about what they're reading. If they mentioned a project in your pre-call email exchange, reference that.
These aren't throwaway moments—they build rapport. People want to work with people they like, and small talk is how we establish likability. However, keep it brief. Two or three minutes of small talk is appropriate, then transition to the main purpose of the call.
Make It About Them First
One of the best ways to leave a positive impression is to show genuine interest in the other person. Ask questions and listen to their answers. Avoid the temptation to fill silences with talking about yourself.
Try these conversation starters:
"What's your background in this field?"
"How did you come to work on this particular project?"
"What do you enjoy most about what you do?"
"What are you working on that excites you right now?"
These questions accomplish two things: they gather useful information, and they make the other person feel valued.
Speak About Your Interests Authentically
When it's your turn to talk about yourself, be genuine. Instead of reciting your resume, tell them about what actually drives you. Example: Rather than saying, "I'm experienced in project management," try: "I love the problem-solving aspect of project management. There's something satisfying about coordinating different pieces and seeing everything come together."
This shows personality and gives them insight into who you are beyond your professional credentials.
Topics to Navigate Carefully
Avoid Common Pitfalls
Don't complain about previous jobs or employers. This is an immediate red flag, regardless of how justified your complaints might be. The person hearing you complain is left wondering if you'll speak negatively about their company too.
Steer clear of overly personal topics on a first call. Religion, politics, and intense personal struggles don't belong in an initial one-on-one unless the other person brings them up and there's an established rapport.
When They Ask About You
Be prepared for standard questions: "Tell me about yourself" or "What brings you here?" You want a response that's roughly two to three minutes long—long enough to be substantive but short enough to keep the conversation flowing.
A good formula: Start with your current role or interest, mention a key accomplishment or experience, then end with what you're looking to explore or achieve next.
Example: "Right now, I'm working as a marketing manager at an e-commerce company. I've really enjoyed building our social media strategy from the ground up—we grew our Instagram following by 150% over the last year. I'm particularly interested in learning more about content strategy, which is why I was excited to connect with you."
During the Conversation: Best Practices
Listen More Than You Talk
Aim for a conversation ratio of roughly 40% talking and 60% listening. Ask follow-up questions based on what they say. This serves multiple purposes: you learn more, they feel heard, and you come across as genuinely interested rather than self-focused.
Use Positive Body Language
Lean slightly forward to show engagement. Nod when they make points. Keep your hands visible (not crossed over your chest). Maintain a relaxed but attentive posture. These nonverbal cues communicate confidence and interest even through a screen.
Don't Rush to Fill Silences
If there's a natural pause, resist the urge to jump in immediately. Sometimes people need a moment to think. Comfortable silence is a sign of a genuine conversation.
Be Mindful of Talking Pace
Speaking too quickly signals nervousness. Slow your speech slightly, especially when covering important information. It makes you sound more confident and helps them absorb what you're saying.
Toward the End: Closing Strong
Summarize and Confirm Next Steps
As the conversation winds down, briefly recap what you've discussed and clarify any next steps. "It sounds like you're looking for someone with experience in analytics and team leadership. I'm excited about the possibility and would love to learn more."
Express Genuine Gratitude
Thank them specifically: "I really appreciated hearing about your experience leading remote teams—that's something I'm personally interested in developing." This shows you were actually listening.
Leave Them with Confidence
Your last words should convey competence and enthusiasm. Something like, "Thanks so much for this conversation. I really enjoyed learning more about your work, and I'm genuinely interested in exploring this opportunity further."
After the Call: Solidify the Connection
Send a follow-up message within 24 hours. Reference something specific from your conversation: "I couldn't stop thinking about what you mentioned about remote team communication. I'd love to continue that discussion."
This brief message demonstrates professionalism, genuine interest, and attention to detail.