It is a common phenomenon to have wacky nerves before appearing for the interview at the given company’s office. Right from the time the candidate enters the premises, his each move is scrutinized. Well, this is no more the case thanks to the involvement of technology in the interview process. Companies are increasingly adopting the concept of a Skype interview. This proves to be useful for candidates who live in a different geographical location as each employer wants the best recruit irrespective of where he belongs. It might become an inconvenience for the candidate to come down to the office as there is no assurance that he’ll get the job. Such interviews have become a growing trend in local offices as well. It saves time and money of both the parties involved.
Moreover, a Skype interview gives the interviewer an idea of the candidate before investing time and effort for the second round of interviews. As companies are more open to hiring remote workers these days, it has the liberty to choose from a wide range of candidates. It might sound like an easier way to deal with the interview from the candidate’s perspective as one feels more nervous when he’s having a face-to-face interaction with someone. This might be true but even in a video call interview, the candidate needs to be on his best behavior. In terms of observation of an employer, such an interview is equivalent to a personal interview. The only difference is that one needs to talk to the screen instead of a direct eye contact.
How to crack the Skype interview
Whenever the interviewer asks to have a Skype interview, promptly agree to it. Making excuses to delay or avoid such an interview instantly gives a negative impression. The concept of the first impression is always applicable in an interview. Excuses like having a bad internet connection or the lack of a Skype account will not work. Face the situation instead of running away from it. The next step is to make sure that your username isn’t something you created in the seventh grade. Even if it is, create a new one which sounds mature and professional. Prepare for this interview like you would for a personal one. Referring to answers in the middle of the interview is absolutely unacceptable. Go through all the material well in advance.
Set up all the apparatus needed for the interview and test it. The background must be neutral and presentable, try to avoid a shabby surrounding. There should be enough light so that you are clearly visible to the interviewer. Make sure that there are no disturbances around so that the interviewer can hear you clearly. Use a pair of headphones as it will help in understanding the questions without the influence of other sounds. Just because it is a Skype interview, that doesn’t mean it is casual. Dress up the way you would for a personal interview. Maintain a straight posture throughout the talk. Close any other applications which are open on your laptop or smartphone. And most importantly, give all the answers confidently with a pleasant expression on your face.