Tips for a Skype/Video Interview

Skype and video interviews have become increasingly common in the last decade. While many of us are not entirely at ease with having a job interview via video, candidates who can prepare for them effectively will increase their chances of impressing their interviewer over someone else in the process.

1. DON’T MAKE EXCUSES – If you’re asked to do an interview over Skype, saying you’d rather interview over the phone, or that you have a crappy internet connection, or even worse, that you don’t have Skype is a fail. You’ve just answered no to your first interview question. Congrats! If you want this job – find a way to make it work, even if it’s not convenient. You wouldn’t be the first person to download Skype, create an account, and immediately email your interviewer back with a yes and your username.
2. USERNAMES, MAKE SURE YOURS IS PROFESSIONAL – Anything that is difficult to read or making a bad first impression. Be boring and use your name.

3. DRESS THE PART – Dressing like you’re going in for an in-person interview will help you feel like you’re at an in-person interview.

4. THINK ABOUT YOUR LOCATION – Set up a clean, neutral background with good lighting. Avoid basements and sitting in front of a window. Avoid public spaces, unless you don’t have internet at home. If you’re in a coffee shop because you don’t have internet, let your interviewer know by acknowledging that hey, you are in a noisy coffee shop.

5. MAINTAIN EYE CONTACT – As awkward as it might feel, look at your webcam – not the screen. It will make you seem all the more present and personable. Pro-tip: place your laptop on a stack of books to get the camera at eye-level.

6. AVOID AVOIDABLE TECH GLITCHES BY PRACTICING BEFORE – Make a test call to a friend some time before your interview to make sure your audio and camera are working properly. Ask them how you sound, if they can see you clearly, and how the lighting is, etc.

7. ELIMINATE INTERRUPTIONS – That’s not just telling your roommate or mother to steer clear. It’s turning off any notifications on your computer. Silencing your phone. Closing your mail client. Facebook.

 Just remember to always be professional, be prepared and be the perfect candidate. Good luck!