Skype interviews are becoming increasingly popular in hiring processes and whilst it can be slightly more difficult to gauge your interviewers body language, there is no reason you cannot master it and build a strong rapport with the person that you are meeting. There are many advantages to a Skype interview, in particular speeding up the hiring process and meaning that you do not need to spend your time running around the city and arriving drenched when you’ve been caught in the rain (Manchester candidates I’m talking to you!)
Here are my tips at how to master a Skype interview;
- Still prepare as thoroughly for a Skype interview as you would do for a face-to-face meeting. Do not treat it casually and make sure that you leave enough time, especially if you have a number of interviews in one day.
- Dress in the same way as you would for a face-to-face interview. First impressions are everything and a Skype interview is no exception. Make sure you look smart and wear appropriate clothing with neutral make up and minimal jewellery.
- Check your Skype profile before your interview to make sure that your profile name is appropriate as well as your profile picture
- Make sure that you are somewhere quiet to take the call. Avoid any distracting backgrounds such as cafés or public spaces. If you are taking the call at home, make sure that your family know not to shout half way through!
- Just as you would in a face-to-face interview, focus on maintaining positive body language throughout. Maintaining good eye contact, smiling and staying engaged will make you come across confident which is crucial for any role.
- Finally, check your internet connection and battery before the call. Your phone battery dying half way through your interview could be the deciding factor between you getting the job or not!
