Skype Interview Best Practices: Preparation and Presentation

The Rise of Skype Interviews

• 💡 Skype interviews are becoming increasingly common due to advancements in technology and reduced costs, making them a standard step before in-person interviews.
• 🚀 The ubiquity of affordable cameras and increased bandwidth have made video interviews as accessible as phone interviews, fundamentally changing the hiring landscape.

Core Interview Preparation

• 🔑 Thorough preparation is paramount for any interview, including Skype. Lack of preparation will be more apparent in a video format.
• 🧠 Practice extensively, to the point of sounding rehearsed, as true rehearsal is nearly impossible and deep preparation ensures you're not distracted during the interview.
• 🎯 Treat every interview with the same seriousness as a face-to-face meeting; preparation should be ongoing, not just last-minute cramming.

Skype-Specific Setup and Presentation

• 💻 Technical setup is crucial: ensure your laptop is at the correct height and angle to avoid unflattering camera angles (e.g., looking up nostrils).
• 💡 Use books to elevate your laptop so the camera is at or slightly above eye level, presenting a more professional image.
• 🏠 Backgrounds matter: choose a neutral, non-distracting background, ensure the room can be locked, and minimize potential interruptions.
• 👔 Dress the part: always wear a suit and tie, even if the environment is casual, as this conveys professionalism and preparedness.
• ⚠️ Be aware of technical issues like moiré patterns from stripes on shirts, and ensure your Skype account has sufficient funds if making outbound calls.

Professional Demeanor and Etiquette

• 🧍 Posture is key; sit up straight with your back vertical to convey alertness and focus.
• 🚫 Avoid distractions like dirty laundry or busy backgrounds; the interviewer's focus should be solely on you.
• ✅ Test your Skype settings beforehand, including auto-start video, to ensure a smooth and professional start to the call.
• 👔 The "fashion mullet" (business on top, casual on the bottom) is not acceptable for interviews; full professional attire is required from head to toe.
• 🙅‍♀️ Avoid wearing striped shirts, as they can cause interference patterns (moiré) on video transmission.