Tips for Your Skype Interview

As video conference and call technology continues to improve, employers are more often considering it an option to conduct interviews using software like Skype, Live Messenger, and more. Whether you are abroad for a semester or live cross-country from your employer of choice, you may encounter a video interview as part of the process in your application to jobs. The Career Center has some tips below to help you make the best impression and stand out when the conversation takes place via video chat.

Research, Practice, and Prepare
An interview is an interview, whether it is conducted in person, on the phone, or on the web. Research the organization, know your resume from top to bottom, and prepare answers to common interview questions. It’s a good idea to look up the time difference between you and the employer to make sure your timing is correct for the interview as well. Check out the Career Center’s webpage on interviewing and schedule a Practice Interview with a career counselor to hone your interviewing skills by calling 610-519-4060.

Look the Part – Dress Professionally
Though you might be conducting the interview at home, on campus, or in some other out-of-office environment, it’s important to look the part in a video interview. Dress professionally and impress the interviewers with your poise and attire. It may feel strange to get dressed up and speak into a computer, but it will make a difference in the eyes of your interviewer. Getting suited up will even help you feel more professional. Be mindful of the colors of your outfit, too. Try to avoid colors that will wash you out, fade into the background, or create distractions for the interviewer. The same can be said for flashy jewelry. Conservative, neutral colors are best for any interview.

Find the Appropriate Interview Space
One benefit of a video interview is that you can find a comfortable environment for your interview. Regardless of your venue, make sure it is a private location. An ideal space is a quiet room with a door to close and lock so you can avoid interruptions. You can even make a “do not disturb” sign to hang on the door to help others know you need privacy. Microphones can pick up lots of background noise, so location is important to consider for a good video interview. Finally, make sure your space is clean and free of visual distractions in the background. This is especially important if you’ll be interviewing in a bedroom or room in your home. Make sure your environment is set up appropriately so the interviewer can focus on you and the unique skills you’ll bring to the organization.

Get Technology on Your Side
Technology is also crucial for the video interview. Your computer, connection, and software should all be checked long before the interview begins. It’s a good idea to conduct a test run with a friend or family member. Make sure you can see and hear each other, that the picture and lighting are acceptable, and that no background noise exists. Be mindful of the fact that there may be a delay in transmitting the picture and sound – this will prevent you from interrupting an interviewer or ending an answer too soon. On the morning of your interview, check your internet connection and computer at least 1 hour before the interview to make sure everything is set up correctly. Make sure your Skype name appears as professional and easy-to-read: avoid overusing numbers, characters or nicknames.

During Your Interview
Remember to smile and make eye contact with your interviewer. Smiling helps convey your positivity and enthusiasm for the position, and making eye contact builds your connection to the employer. When video interviewing, make sure you look directly into your camera instead of the person on the screen – this will show up on the interviewer’s screen as you making eye contact. Make sure you’ve tested your microphone to know how loudly you need to speak. Finally, take a breath – you’ve made it to the interview and this is your moment to shine. Let all of your hard work, experience and Villanova education pay off!