Hiring managers are now doing a lot of video interviews to reduce their recruiting expenses and make it easier to interview candidates who live out of town. Many of the questions are the same, but a Skype interview requires some extra preparation. Before you meet with a hiring manager via video, take these steps to ensure that the interview is a success.
Test all of your equipment well in advance of your Skype interview. You don't want to make a bad impression on the interviewer by experiencing technical difficulties. Ask a friend to do a test call with you so that you can test your microphone and headphones. Make sure your friend hears you clearly when you speak. If you notice any problems with the audio or video quality, correct them before your interview.
There are a lot of benefits to doing video interviews, but one of the drawbacks is that you need to work hard to make a good impression. Before your Skype interview, take time to clean up the area where you keep your computer and video conferencing equipment. Tidy up your desk, put away stacks of papers and move anything that might make the interviewer question your professionalism. It is best if you set up your equipment so that it faces a blank wall.
On the day of your Skype interview, remove all distractions from your workspace, computer and your interview equipment. If you have pets, move them to another area of the house and make sure they cannot get out during your interview session. If you have a dog that tends to bark a lot, ask a friend or neighbor to watch the dog until your interview is over. If possible, have someone else take care of your kids during the interview, unless the children are old enough to keep themselves occupied while you meet with the interviewer. A barking dog or interruptions by children may make a bad impression.
Make sure you dress professionally for a Skype interview, even if you think the interviewer can only see your head and shoulders. It is hard to feel confident and professional when you are wearing pajama pants or sitting in front of the computer sloppily dressed. Choose an outfit that is one step above what the company's employees usually wear to work. If current employees wear khaki pants and polo shirts, wear dress pants and a button-down shirt.
If you are scheduled for a video interview, take time to test your computer equipment several days in advance. When it is time for your Skype interview, put away your pets and ask a friend or neighbor to watch your kids. Make a good impression by dressing professionally, showing up on time and removing distracting items from the interview environment.
Photo courtesy of ddpavumba at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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