test call for virtual interview

To run a test call in Microsoft Teams and verify camera and audio before the interview, use the built‑in “Make a test call” feature and then, if needed, check Windows camera and mic settings.

1. Open Teams (desktop app for Windows or Mac).
2. Select Settings and more (three dots in the top‑right).
3. Select Settings > Devices.
4. Under Audio settings, select Make a test call.
5. Follow the instructions from Test Call Bot:
   • Speak a short message when prompted.
   • The message is played back so the mic and speakers can be checked.
   • The screen then shows a summary of the test call so device settings can be adjusted.

Notes:

• The test call feature is available only in the Teams desktop app for Windows and Mac, and currently only in English.
• The test recording is deleted immediately after the call and is not retained or used by Microsoft.

If the camera still does not work in Teams on Windows:

1. Test the camera in another app:
   • Open Start > Camera and check if the preview works.
   • If it works there but not in Teams, the issue is likely with Teams or its permissions.
2. Check Windows camera permissions:
   • Open Settings on Windows.
   • Go to Privacy & security > Camera.
   • Turn Let apps access your camera On.
   • Under Let apps access your camera, turn Microsoft Teams (work or school) On. If it is already on, turn it off and back on again.
   • Restart the device.
3. If there is still a black screen or no video, update the camera driver:
   • Select Start > Device Manager.
   • Expand Cameras.
   • Right‑click the camera > Update driver > Search automatically for drivers, then restart the computer.

If the microphone does not work in Teams:

1. In Teams, go to Settings and more > Settings > Devices.
2. Under Audio settings, make sure the correct device is selected in the Microphone dropdown.
3. Use Make a test call again to confirm the mic is working.

If using Teams in a browser instead of the desktop app:

• In Google Chrome:
  1. Open Settings.
  2. Go to Privacy and security > Site settings > Permissions > Microphone.
  3. Ensure the correct mic is selected and Sites can ask to use your microphone is selected.
• In Safari:
  1. Open Preferences.
  2. Select Websites > Microphone.
  3. For When visiting other websites, choose Ask or Allow.
  4. Restart the device after changes.

Running these checks a few days before the interview ensures the camera and audio are working and gives time to update drivers or adjust permissions if needed.

References:

• My camera isn't working in Microsoft Teams
• My microphone isn't working in Microsoft Teams
• Manage your call settings in Microsoft Teams
• Camera doesn't work in Windows