Things You Need to Prepare for a Skype Interview
MAKE SURE YOUR USERNAME IS PROFESSIONAL.
Anything that is difficult to read or in any way resembles your middle school AIM screenname is making a bad first impression. Be boring and use your name.
DRESS WELL.
Just because you’re not on-site does not mean you should wear your college hoodie. I’m not saying put on a suit, but you should wear whatever you would wear to an in-person interview. Plus, dressing like you’re going in for an in-person interview will help you feel like you’re at an in-person interview.
THINK ABOUT YOUR BACKGROUND.
What’s behind you matters. Set up a clean, neutral background with good lighting. Avoid basements and sitting in front of a window, unless you want to look like someone whose identity is being protected. Avoid public spaces, unless you don’t have internet at home
USE A HEADSET.
People might differ on this one, but if you have a headphone set with a talk piece (like most iPod or iPhone headphones), use it – especially if you’re in a public space
HANDLE ANY TECH GLITCHES WITH GRACE.
Things can go wrong. Your interviewer understands that. If something does happen, remain calm and friendly while you troubleshoot. Don’t be afraid to ask to hang up the call and try again if your Skype is freezing up
ELIMINATE INTERRUPTIONS.
That’s not just telling your roommate or mother to steer clear. It’s turning off any notifications on your computer. Silencing your phone. Closing your mail client. Facebook. AIM, if you’re still using that middle school account mentioned previously.
