Preparing for a video drug assessment can feel overwhelming, but following six simple steps can make the process smooth and stress-free. Here’s what you need to do:

• Check Your Tech: Ensure your internet, camera, microphone, and video platform (like Zoom) are working properly.
• Set Up Your Space: Choose a quiet, well-lit, and private area with minimal distractions.
• Organize Documents: Have your ID, legal paperwork, and any other required documents ready.
• Look Professional: Dress appropriately and maintain confident body language.
• Speak Clearly: Be honest, direct, and thorough in your answers while maintaining a calm tone.
• Follow Up: Review your report, clarify any details, and complete any recommended next steps.

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1. Check Your Tech Setup

Make sure your tech is ready to avoid any hiccups during your assessment.

Internet Speed and Stability

A reliable internet connection is crucial for smooth video calls. Aim for a speed of at least 15–20 Mbps for the best experience ^[1]. Test your internet speed beforehand, and if possible, use an ethernet cable for a more stable connection. Keep a mobile hotspot as a backup and close any apps that might use up bandwidth.

If you’re on WiFi, sit close to your router and reduce interference from other devices.

Audio and Video Equipment

Good audio and video are key to effective communication. Take these steps to ensure everything works perfectly:

• Camera Setup: Check that your webcam is connected, test the video quality in proper lighting, clean the lens, and verify the camera settings ^[2].
• Audio Setup: Test your microphone and speakers, record and play back audio to confirm clarity, adjust volume levels, and use headphones to avoid echo ^[2].

Video Platform Setup

DrugEval.com uses Zoom for assessments ^[3]. Download the latest version of Zoom, run its built-in equipment test, and join a test meeting to practice using the platform. Familiarize yourself with muting/unmuting and video controls.

If you run into technical problems, contact support. Once your tech is ready, focus on setting up your space for the assessment.

2. Set Up Your Space

Creating the right setup helps maintain clear communication and professionalism during your video drug assessment.

Room Selection and Lighting

Pick a quiet room with good lighting. Make sure the light source is in front of you to keep your face well-lit and avoid shadows:

• Sit facing the light source for even illumination.
• Place your camera at eye level using a stack of books or a laptop stand.
• Use natural light from a window or a lamp positioned in front of you.

Privacy Measures

Protect your privacy and minimize interruptions by:

• Closing windows to reduce outside noise.
• Locking the door to avoid disturbances.
• Informing others in your home that you need privacy.
• Using headphones with a built-in microphone for better audio quality.

Eliminate Distractions

Keep your environment distraction-free by:

• Silencing phones and other electronic devices.
• Closing unnecessary browser tabs and apps.
• Turning off nearby TVs or radios.
• Keeping pets out of the room.
• Clearing clutter from your background.
• Sitting in front of a neutral, tidy backdrop.

Once your space is ready, you can focus on having all necessary documents organized and within reach.

3. Prepare Your Documents

Getting your paperwork in order makes the video drug assessment process much smoother.

Identification

Have a valid government-issued photo ID ready, like a driver’s license, passport, or state ID, to confirm your identity.

Legal Paperwork

Gather any relevant legal documents, such as court orders, referral forms, citations, or tickets. This helps keep the evaluation process efficient.

Once your documents are prepared, you can focus on presenting yourself professionally during the assessment.

4. Look Professional

Once your documents are ready, it’s time to focus on how you present yourself. Your appearance and behavior can significantly impact how engaged and prepared you seem during your evaluation.

Body Language

Non-verbal communication plays a big role in making a positive impression ^[5].

“Presenting confidence, friendliness, and positivity should be your aim in any interview, but how you convey that during a video interview is different than in person.” – Jennifer Parris ^[4]

To convey confidence:

• Sit up straight to appear attentive ^[4]
• Look directly into the camera ^[4]
• Lean in slightly to show interest ^[4]
• Use small, intentional hand gestures while speaking ^[4]
• Keep your feet flat on the ground ^[4]

Professional Demeanor

Your overall demeanor also shapes how professional you appear. First impressions, especially visual ones, can leave a lasting impact ^[5].

To maintain a professional demeanor:

• Nod occasionally to demonstrate active listening ^[4]
• Smile when it feels appropriate ^[4]
• Avoid crossing your arms or legs to seem approachable ^[4]
• Stay calm and composed throughout ^[5]
• Use open hand gestures to build trust ^[5]

5. Speak Effectively

Once you’ve nailed your setup and appearance, it’s time to focus on your verbal communication. How you speak can make or break a video assessment, so clarity and precision are key.

Voice and Speech Tips

Speaking over video comes with its own challenges. Here’s how to make sure your message comes through loud and clear:

• Speak with confidence, but avoid shouting.
• Maintain a moderate pace so your words are easy to follow.
• Enunciate carefully to counteract any audio issues.

Take a moment to pause before responding, keep your tone steady, and avoid interrupting the other person.

Give Complete Answers

When answering questions, aim to be both direct and thorough:

• Stick to the question without going off-topic.
• Add relevant context when needed.
• Always be truthful in your responses.

Ask Questions

Have questions ready beforehand, and listen closely for opportunities to clarify. When the moment is right, ask specific, thoughtful questions.

“Presenting confidence, friendliness, and positivity should be your aim in any interview, but how you convey that during a video interview is different than in person.” – Jennifer Parris ^[4]

Asking smart questions shows you’re engaged and serious about the process. If something isn’t clear, don’t hesitate to ask your evaluator for more details. It shows you’re proactive and ensures you’re on the same page.

6. Complete Required Steps

Once your tools, space, documents, and presentation are ready, take these final steps to wrap up your assessment.

Post-Assessment Tasks

After the assessment, carefully review your report to confirm everything is accurate. If you notice any errors or unclear details, reach out to your evaluator right away.

Get Your Report

The assessment report includes the findings and any recommendations discussed. Double-check that it aligns with what was covered during the evaluation.

Book Follow-Ups

If additional sessions or assessments are suggested, arrange them with your evaluator as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Proper preparation is essential for a smooth video drug assessment. Focus on six key areas: test your technology, set up your space, organize necessary documents, maintain a professional appearance, communicate effectively, and complete any follow-up tasks. These steps help ensure the assessment runs smoothly and delivers accurate, actionable outcomes.