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Although a Skype interview seems like it's virtually the same as an over-the-phone interview, there are a few more things that you need to consider.
Despite it being a seemingly meaningless thing, ensure that you have an appropriate username on your Skype account. Your potential employer will look at every detail to determine your suitability for the job. Therefore, an inappropriate username could jeopardize your chances.
As aforementioned in my 'How to handle a phone interview' article, dressing the part is critical. Not only will you feel more confident, you'll look professional and prepared. I'm not implying that you should wear a suit and tie, but ensure your outfit is smart.
Once again, appearance is crucial. The background of your video call should be tidy and at an appropriate noise level. You should never conduct a Skype interview in the middle of a busy place, as this will appear unprofessional and, quite possibly, rushed. Also, ensuring you can hear the interviewer will help you avoid any awkward moments... hopefully. Using headphones might help, but this is more about personal preference. In addition to this, good lighting is necessary.
If you're in a dark room, you might look a little shady, for lack of a better term, which isn't the ideal impression you want to give an employer. So, try to have a good set-up, with your notes (if you need them) in front of you, with decent lighting and a good angle – nobody wants that double chin look.
Do you know what happens in a group interview?
How to prepare
Preparation is essential, hence why I'm stressing this so much. Ideally, there should be no distractions, so let anyone in your house know you shouldn't be interrupted, and turn your phone to silent. Don't rush the call either, so make sure you have plenty of time on either side of it, just in case they decide to call you a little earlier or it runs over the suggested time.
Furthermore, checking that everything works on your computer/laptop might be worthwhile before the call happens. You could have a friend call you beforehand so that you can adjust the sound settings and make any other necessary changes. All of these little things will help to make you look well-prepared, and it means that you don't have to worry about that sort of thing while dealing with any potential nerves.
Are you not used to Skype?
Even if you're not a regular user of Skype (or a user of Skype), it is a handy platform for employers to get to know you before they meet you in person, so make an effort to carry out the call nonetheless. Doing so proves to your interviewer that you're a quick learner and will rise to a challenge – a valuable skill in any career. Adapting to new technology will undoubtedly help you, giving you more experience.
Additionally, there is a chance that you could run into some unavoidable technical difficulties. Try not to panic, and don't hesitate to suggest calling your interviewer back. You can use this moment to demonstrate your problem-solving skills while showing that you can remain composed, which is crucial if you're going for a role in which you'd have to deal with customer complaints or anything along those lines.
This is how to prepare for a group interview...
The difference between an interview in person vs. Skype
Here are some key differences between a job interview conducted via Skype (or any other video conferencing platform) and an in-person interview:
- Physical Presence: In an in-person interview, you meet the interviewer(s) face-to-face, which allows for more personal interaction. With Skype, you communicate remotely, and the lack of physical presence can impact the overall dynamic and non-verbal cues.
- Environment: In an in-person interview, you visit the company's premises, which gives you a sense of the workplace environment and culture. With Skype interviews, you miss out on experiencing the physical workspace and interacting with employees.
- Technology Challenges: Skype interviews can be subject to technical difficulties, such as poor internet connection, audio/video issues, or software glitches. A stable internet connection is crucial, and ensuring that your equipment functions correctly to avoid disruptions.
- Body Language: In person, you can observe and interpret body language cues, such as hand gestures, facial expressions, and overall demeanour, which may influence your responses and perception. These cues are often more limited or less apparent in a video interview.
- Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact is vital during an interview. You can establish direct eye contact in person, strengthening the interviewer's connection. On Skype, maintaining eye contact can be challenging since you need to look into the camera to simulate eye contact rather than at the interviewer's image on the screen.
- Distractions: During a Skype interview, you may encounter distractions in your surroundings, such as noise from other people, pets, or environmental factors. In an in-person interview, the interviewer(s) can control the environment better, minimizing potential disruptions.
- Technical Etiquette: In a Skype interview, you must be familiar with the platform's features and etiquettes, such as muting and unmuting yourself, using the chat function appropriately, and understanding screen sharing options. Familiarize yourself with the software beforehand to ensure a smooth interview experience.
- Handshake and Physical Interaction: In an in-person interview, shaking hands is a familiar gesture during introductions. This physical interaction is absent in video interviews, making it necessary to express your enthusiasm and professionalism through verbal cues and tone of voice.
While there are differences, many fundamental principles for success, such as thorough preparation, demonstrating your qualifications, and engaging in meaningful conversation, remain the same regardless of the interview format.
Ask questions to show interest.
While the call's happening, feel free to ask questions and ensure you answer any you're invited to. It would be best to indicate that you're paying attention from a nod of the heal response. You may have done a biresearchedany beforehand, so feel free to slip in some of the information you've discovered into the conversation. However, it would be best if you were sure that it helps the conversation flow and portrays you in a good light rather than seeming like you're yelling out facts through nerves.
Stay calm! Take advantage of the fact that you're in the comfort of your home (or whatever venue you've chosen) and relax – but not your posture. Ask any questions you need to, and thank your interviewer before the call ends, then keep your fingers crossed.
Here, we list what not to do in a group interview...
Post by Georgia Foote.
Hi, I'm Georgia. I'm an oversized cardigan and makeup enthusiast who loves my heart out on paper and watching The Handmaid's Tale on repeat.
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