Many companies utilize the latest video recording technology to conduct face-to-face interviews with candidates. A Skype interview helps save time, money and travel during the recruiting process, especially if a potential candidate lives out of town. This method works since a majority of candidates have a laptop or desktop along with an attached webcam.
In terms of a job search strategy, you should treat this portion of the process just as seriously as a traditional interview. The only difference is that you must master a few technological quirks before your Skype interview. Although many videoconferencing programs exist, Skype represents one of the most popular choices among computer users, recruiters and employers.
Test your equipment well before your scheduled interview. This gives you plenty of time to work out any issues, determine how the webcam works and become comfortable with this aspect of job search technology. Practice activating and deactivating the software. Chat with friends via Skype, and ask them how things look and sound. Perform several practice interviews with your spouse or a friend to get the feel for using a webcam. Ask your friend if he can hear and see you clearly through the connection. Enunciate every word you say, and take into account any possible time lag between your location and the office.
Dress professionally the day of the Skype interview. Notice the surroundings of your room, especially the background behind you. Sit in front of a blank wall, preferably a white one, without any decorations or distractions to detract from keeping the focus on you. Find a quiet room so your interviewers can hear you distinctly and without interruptions. Tell your family or roommates that you need a quiet space during a specific time. Have your neighbor watch your dog so it doesn't bark during your Skype interview. If you need to go elsewhere to find a quiet spot, reserve a private study room at a local library well in advance. Check your wireless Internet connection several minutes before the interview begins.
Even with preparation, sometimes a technical glitch may still occur. Prepare for this situation and know how to respond should something beyond your control happen during the interview. Always follow up after the interview with a thank-you note sent through an email. Even better, send a handwritten note that supplements your emailed note. The handwritten note should arrive a few days after your initial email as a way to remind your interviewers who they spoke with via the computer.
A Skype interview shows your potential employer the type of person you are without driving all the way to the office. Recruiters use this valuable tool to gauge your personality, intelligence, problem-solving skills and technological prowess. As with any other aspect of finding a job, preparedness leads to success.
Photo courtesy of franky242 at FreeDigitalPhotos.net
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