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Zoom Basics: How to Join and Use a Video Meeting

By the Gray Hair Jobs Editorial Team · Published · 2 min read

The short answer

Zoom is a video meeting tool that many employers use for interviews. To join, click the meeting link you were sent, or open Zoom and enter the meeting ID and passcode. You do not need to pay to join a meeting. Learn where the mute and video buttons are, and do a test call before your interview.

Key points

  • Joining a Zoom meeting is free.
  • Most people join by clicking a link from the host.
  • The Mute and Video buttons are at the bottom of the screen.
  • Zoom offers a test meeting to check your camera and sound.
  • Join a few minutes early to fix any problems.

Before the meeting

  1. Find the invitation email. It includes a link, and often a Meeting ID and Passcode.
  2. On a computer, you can join through the Zoom app or your web browser. On a phone or tablet, download the free Zoom app from your app store.
  3. Test your setup. Zoom offers a test meeting at zoom.us/test, where you can check your camera, speaker, and microphone.

Join the meeting

  1. A few minutes before the start time, click the link in the invitation.
  2. If asked, allow your browser to open Zoom, or choose to join from your browser.
  3. Type your full name if asked. This is how the interviewer will see you.
  4. Choose Join with Computer Audio (or Join Audio) so you can hear and be heard.
  5. You may see a message that the host will let you in soon. This is called a waiting room. Wait patiently.

If you do not have a link, open Zoom, click Join, and type the Meeting ID and passcode.

Use the main controls

The bar at the bottom of the Zoom window has the main buttons. Move your mouse or tap the screen if it is hidden.

  • Mute / Unmute (microphone icon) turns your sound off or on. A red line through it means you are muted.
  • Start Video / Stop Video (camera icon) turns your camera on or off.
  • Chat opens a text box for typed messages.
  • Leave (often red) ends your part of the meeting.

The exact wording and layout can vary by version.

Tips for a smooth interview

  • Sit facing a window or lamp, so light is in front of you.
  • Look at the camera, not just the screen, when you speak.
  • Silence your phone and close other programs.
  • Keep the invitation email open in case you need to rejoin.

For more preparation, read what is a video interview and how to prepare for a video interview.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a Zoom account to join an interview?

Usually not. You can typically join a meeting by clicking the link without creating an account. Some employers set up meetings that require you to sign in, and the invitation or Zoom will tell you if so. Creating a free account is quick if needed.

Why can't the interviewer hear me?

First, check whether you are muted. Look for a microphone icon with a red line and click it. If that is not the problem, click the small arrow next to the microphone button and make sure the right microphone is selected. Also check that your computer's volume is turned up.

Can I join a Zoom meeting by phone call only?

Often, yes. Many Zoom invitations include dial-in phone numbers. You call one, then enter the meeting ID when asked. This works as a backup if your internet fails, though the interviewer will not see you. Let them know if you switch to phone.

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