With the popularity of video chatting software on the rise, many employers are turning to the convenience of Skype interviewing to achieve their hiring goals. On the flip-side of this technological transition are us, the prospective hirees. As young professionals, it’s our job to adapt to this new form of interviewing and hopefully make the best of its advantages and low-points alike.
Skype interviews have become most popular in situations that previously would’ve required the candidate to travel a lengthy distance. In most cases, this isn’t the first step in the interview process, and employers generally invite their most desired candidates to meet them via Skype. While the process may seem simple on the outside, there’s much more to acing a Skype interview than you might think. We’re going to cover the most basic tips right now, and hopefully you’ll learn a few things about this exciting process:
1. Location, location, location: When you arrive at a face-to-face interview, you probably don’t have control over your surroundings. However, when you’re interviewing over Skype, it’s important to choose a backdrop that fits the job you’re vying for. Always make sure you’re in a professional, office-like setting that’s free from any alcoholic drinks, vulgar or immature posters and anything else that runs the risk of seeming unprofessional.
2. Pay attention to the mechanics: Before your interview begins, make sure you’re on a computer that has full battery life and clear internet access. It’ll seem unprepared and un-savvy if your connection fails during the middle of an interview question, regardless of whether it’s your fault or the computer’s. If there’s any doubt about your connection or battery, simply choose a different computer or have the interview somewhere more secure.
3. Listen to your mom’s advice: It may sound cheesy, but seriously, just be yourself. With only two of the five senses active during a Skype interview, investing yourself in a genuine conversation can get difficult. If you’re feeling nervous, practice possible interview topics, questions, and answers with a friend or family member, and above all else, relax.
What are your thoughts about Skype interviewing?
For the same reasons that Natalie wanted to promote her method of firing people via video conferencing in Up In the Air, online interviewing definitely has its pros. Interviewing people on Skype is inexpensive and convenient for both parties, and can be more acceptable to people who are uncomfortable with, or unable to attend, traditional face-to-face interviews.
However, I feel that one of the major setbacks of online interviewing is that while you are fully aware that you are in an interview, it’s all too easy to lose focus, whether it’s because you are too comfortable with your surroundings or if it’s because social and conversational cues are harder to pick up.
This is a great post with some great tips! With technology becoming more and more prominent in today’s society it is not wonder that job interviews via Skype are growing in popularity.