Video interviews and Skype interviews are increasingly seen as a more efficient and cost-effective way to vet potential new employees \u2013 and with global hiring also becoming more commonplace, it\u2019s worth understanding how best to maximise your chances if you\u2019re invited to a video or Skype interview.<\/p>\n
It\u2019s important to familiarise yourself with some Skype video etiquette. Avoid the pitfalls and navigate your way to on-screen success with our 10 top tips for making the most of your Skype video virtual interview:<\/p>\n
Do a technical check before your online interview begins to make sure that your internet connection is stable enough to avoid dropouts and poor sound and picture quality. Consider setting up a dedicated external lapel or desktop mic if your built-in mic sounds muffled. Have a list of links to a resume or portfolio ready to copy and paste if required. And ensure your Skype name and photo are professional looking, so you create the right impression from the outset.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Do a quick \u2018mock interview\u2019 run-through with a friend beforehand and you\u2019ll feel much more confident when the time comes. This is a great chance to test out your technical set-up, your comfort levels on Skype and the quality of your answers.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Before your online interview begins, make sure you switch your phone to silent and turn off other applications (such as Facebook), so that message alerts don\u2019t intrude and distract.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
This is no time for a T-shirt and sweatpants \u2013 you need to treat this like a face-to-face interview. Dress as you would for any normal interview and be well groomed, so you really look and feel the part.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
It can be harder to create engagement and connection with your interviewer through video \u2013 so be sure to counter this by looking directly into the camera as you speak, rather than at the screen or the picture of yourself. This can be tricky to sustain, but if you accomplish this you\u2019ll be way ahead of your competition (who mostly won\u2019t use this trick).<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Position yourself to minimise distracting background clutter. Piles of laundry or mess behind you are distracting and will send the wrong message. Frame yourself in the best light and in the best surroundings to convey an image of calm, order and professionalism.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Whether it\u2019s a screaming baby, a blaring TV or the roar of the nearby freeway, background noise can interfere with your concentration and distract your interviewer. Make sure you\u2019re somewhere where you won\u2019t be disturbed \u2013 and remember that your mic will also potentially pick up the sound of shuffling papers or drinking from your coffee cup, so be careful to minimise those types of noises.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n
Physical cues can be even more noticeable on Skype \u2013 so avoid crossing your arms or hunching your shoulders. Adopt a posture that is relaxed and open<\/a>, remember to smile a lot, and try not to slouch in your seat or rest your head in your hand.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n