The Skype Interview

So, you submitted your resume, got past HR, and you’re moving on to the next steps in the interview process.

Now you can’t wait to meet the hiring manager, and you will, but not necessarily in person.

With remote work and de-centralization, it’s quite possible that you and the hiring manager don’t live in the same city – or even in the same country.

Skype/Video calls save a tremendous amount of time and money, but they do have their drawbacks.

Here’s some things to keep in mind…

Double-check your connection – make sure there are no technical issues on your end.

If you don’t have a home office, find a quiet corner where you won’t be disturbed and household noises won’t filter through.

Be conscious of your body language – you don’t want to appear too comfortable or laid back.

Dress for success still applies… no matter how tempting it is do not dress formally on the top half and casual on the bottom – just don’t do it!

Have everything you need ready at hand – pen, paper, your resume, list of questions for the hiring manager.

If you want water or coffee then use a proper mug or glass – no Disney themes, please.

Look them in the eye!

This is crucial to video interview success.

I’ve conducted a number of video interviews and it’s very disconcerting when someone doesn’t look you in the eye when you’re speaking with them. Even worse, you don’t feel like you’ve connected. A lot of people tend to look at the other person’s image on the screen but you need to look into the camera – not stare of course, you don’t want to freak them out(!), just natural eye contact.

Most of all, treat a video call as what it is, a formal interview, and act accordingly.

Best of Luck!

from the March edition of The Scoop
By: Pamela Inglis

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