Skype and Video Interview Preparation

Q. I just got a call from a recruiter and she told me the company she represents wants me to have a Skype interview.  I have never used Skype before, but I do have a web-cam on my laptop computer. Can you give me some pointers to prepare for the interview? JH, Chicago, IL

A. The trend towards using Skype to conduct interviews has increased over the past several years. Companies find it saves both time and money, allowing them to quickly screen out unsuitable candidates. 

When asked to have a Skype interview here is some recommendations to help you make a strong lasting impression.

1. Download and test Skype on your computer with friends and family, before the interview, so you can get a feel for how it works. Make sure you have it configured correctly and test for sound volume and camera height. The camera should show your face and at least a few buttons of your shirt, so you aren’t just a talking head.
2. If possible, have your computer facing a bookshelf that is neat and tidy and has no objectionable reading material.  Do not have posters of your favorite rock band as the backdrop. If you don’t have a bookshelf, be sure that whatever is visible in the background is not sending out a negative message about you.
3. Don’t wear patterns or white clothing. On a web-cam, this can be distracting.  Instead, wear darker colors and dress professionally. You can wear boxer shorts or pajamas on your bottom half, but be sure you are well dressed from the waist up.
4. Look into the camera rather than looking at the person’s image in the corner of your screen.  If you need to, put a picture of someone you like next to the actual web-cam lens. This will keep your focus where it should be, so that you appear to be making good eye contact with the interviewer. 
5. Before the interview, make sure the room you will be in is QUIET.  Silence land lines and cell phones, close your email, and make sure the dog is out of earshot. Keep anything that might beep, buzz, or bark at a safe distance.
6. Another consideration is lighting. Avoid bright light coming in from a window or anywhere behind you. Instead, opt for lighting in front of or to the side of your computer that illuminates your face without glare. Again, test with friends or family.

Don’t forget to also prepare for the actual interview as you would with any interview you were having.  Research the company well; prepare concise answers to standard questions, and be ready to provide concrete examples of how you were an asset in your former positions.

If you have a question you would like to ask Deb, please email Debra@careersdonewrite.com. The Ask Deb column appears every Friday at http://www.careersdonewrite.com/blog.