Which is more effective interviewing for a job, the telephone or Skype? The telephone is less effective in making a positive impression. Why? With Skype, you have more opportunity to present yourself in a positive way: Appearance, demeanor, eye contact and pictorial clues. When you can’t see the interviewer you have no way to gauge your impact: Head nodding, smiles/frowns, blinking or boredom.
If you have a choice, pick Skype over the telephone. You’ll be more successful if you know what to do and what not to do:
- Practice Skype interviewing with an experienced friend. Get comfortable with the process of Skype. This is an important skill to learn.
- Create a comfortable environment. Don’t have a bright light behind you or you’ll look like a shadowy figure. Have a neutral background.
- Keep children, pets and visitors out of the room. Disable the telephone. Put a note on the door, “On a conference call”
- Dress and act the same as if you were in the interviewer’s office
- Prepare key words on small post-it notes so you don’t forget important items. Place them on the monitor screen. The interviewer can’t see them, but you can, to make sure you cover all the key points. Have your resume handy
- Keep the red light of the camera at eye level. Assume the camera light is the eye of the interviewer, because in a way it is. Too high or low and your image gets distorted.
- If you write notes on an important point, write one or two words on a pad. You might want to say, “That’s an important point”. Don’t make many or lengthy notes as it would be impolite.
- Always look at the camera while making a point or when talking. You’ll appear a stronger candidate. Eye contact projects confidence, honesty and self-assured strength.
- Never, ever eat or drink while interviewing. Have a sip of water handy if your mouth gets dry, but make sure your don’t spill it on your lap or short-out the computer.
- Use the rest room prior to the interview. Some interviews will go over an hour, which means the interviewer is really interested in you. Don’t spoil the moment by having to leave.
- Everything you do is magnified because all eyes are on you. Put a pleasant smile on your face and pay attention at all times. When your eyes drift away or begin to close, it means you’re not interested. Stay focused and engaged.
- If your interviewing with a group, make sure everyone has a chance to speak. Asking if there are any more questions about each subject shows that you’re a facilitator and are interested in everyone’s input: A team player. Use their names whenever appropriate.
Skype interviews are popular and it’s necessary for you to perform well. Show that you’re comfortable with advancing technology as your new job may depend on it.
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