What to do and what not to do in a SKYPE virtual interview

 Skype interviews are video interviews  The results have resulted in possible job offers.  Most people are developing their virtual interview skills.  Know how to interview using virtual interviewing software-Skype

 Should you take Skype interviews any differently than a phone interview or a face-to- face one? No-Prepare like you would for any other interview  They are replacing the phone interviews  You certainly shouldn’t take it less seriously.

 1. Remember it’s an interview -Chances are you’re applying for a job in the real world, so be yourself.  2. Concentrate on the facts –They want to hear stories about what has brought you here today. They’re looking for a demonstrable ability to perform well, write succinctly, and give clear examples.  3. Dress for Success - Treat this interview as if you are interviewing face to face. You do want to dress professionally. Dressing in pajamas will produce a more relaxed feeling when you are talking. Your confidence will come across on the phone while you are interviewing.

 4. Remain courteous – You wouldn’t rush away from an interview the moment the final question had been answered, so be sure to make an impression from the moment you’re visible to the moment you’re shaking virtual hands after a successful meeting. If the interviewer can still see you, make sure your behavior is impeccable.  5. Keep the interviewer informed – If you aren’t sure about an answer, ask the virtual interviewer for a little time to compose yourself. If you need clarification on a question, don’t be afraid to ask for it. If your virtual self is just sitting there doing nothing for a couple of minutes without explanation, it won’t look too good.

 6. Prepare your environment – You want to find a quiet space where you will not be disturbed by any outside annoyances. If you have children, it is important to have someone watching them so you will not get interrupted during your interview. Let your family and friends know what time you will be interviewing. Ask them not to call or visit you during the specified time. You may want to put a note on the door stating “Please do not disturb: In a meeting” to avoid any distractions. In addition, you do not want to have any electronics turned on that could possibly be heard over the phone: cell phones, music, or television.  7. Prepare Questions - During the interview process you will be asked the same questions as in a face-to-face interview. Knowing as much information as possible about the company you are interviewing with is very important to shine to a potential employer. Be prepared with questions that pertain to the company.

 8. Do your homework – A virtual interview will be no less difficult than a face-to-face interview. You still need to prepare and be ready for any questions thrown at you.  9. Sit at a desk – When speaking, sounding poised is important. Your voice will reflect your professionalism. Choose a place such as a desk or the kitchen table where you can sit straight as if you were interviewing in person. Do NOT fidget and move around!  10. Tell the truth – Both recruiters and interviewees have championed previous virtual interviews because of the honesty involved. There’s a tendency to get to the point and give a more confident reply to a question.

Your username, usertag, handle etc… Avoid handles such as: beerlover05, xohotstuffox, etc… Choose a username that incorporates your actual name ie: drwarner Use numbers & underscores if your desired username is already taken ie: dr_warner or drwarner29

 Think…LinkedIn Profile Picture  Position, angle, move your camera so that you’re face is slightly above center (portrait style)  Lighting  Sitting in front of a window may cause your face to appear dark and blurry  Lighting from the side can cast an ominous shadow across your face  Position your computer in an area where the sun/light is in front of your face

 Know your webcam, work out the glitches  Test-run with a friend ahead of time – Get feedback on appearance, lighting, focus  Be aware of “lag” – test Internet/Wireless connection before  Watch out for delay – response time  Eye contact is crucial – look at the camera

 Would you hire someone who knew nothing about your business? Probably not!  Find out the following:  What are their products, clients, specialties, etc.?  What skills & qualities are organizations seeking in that field?  Learn and incorporate the “buzz” words for your profession in your responses.  Know basic interview questions such as:  Tell me about yourself. (Tell them about your skills/abilities/experiences – not about your age, family, or friends!)  Why should I hire you? (Again – tell them about your skills/abilities/experiences and how you would be a fit for their organization.)  What do you know about our organization? (Hopefully a lot!)

 Remember that a virtual interview is still a real interview  Have a copy of Cover Letter and Resume on hand  Pen and Paper on hand  Be ready early