Interview questions for Skype Interview

Skype interviews can really be the best of both worlds — you still get face-to-face time with an employer while cutting travel out of the equation. And while mastering the interview is a common practice, etiquette surrounding a Skype interview is different from both in-person and phone interviews. Sometimes companies use Skype for first-round interviews (similar to a phone interview). Other times, the entire interview process will be online and companies will use Skype for second-round or even third-round interviews.
For job candidates, the convenience of interviewing from home is a major bonus.

Tips to attend skype interview

1. Look at the camera, not the screen:

It is very tempting to watch yourself or your interviewer during a Skype session, but looking directly at the video camera is the only way to maintain direct eye contact with your interviewer.

2. Do a Trail run:

The last thing you want to do is get on Skype minutes before a job interview and be unfamiliar with Skype. Even if you use the app for conference calls regularly, does a test run with a friend before the interview to make sure everything looks good, sounds good, and works as intended.

3. Download the Software:

Download the software at least a few days in advance of the interview. While there are Skype platforms that cost money, it is generally free to video chat with other Skype users.

4. Dress the part:

When it comes to what you wear, treat your Skype interview like an in-person interview and dress professionally from head to toe (or at least from head to waist!). A professional dress code with video interviews is expected, not excused.

5. Make Sure Interviewers Have Your Contact Info:

Making that switch is easier if you give the interviewers your phone number ahead of time so they can reach you if the Skype connection drops. Before you send an interviewer your Skype details, review your Skype username and profile.

6. Prepare your surroundings:

Pick a quiet place to interview without an elaborate backdrop so that you can be the focal point on the screen. Remove anything distracting behind you and keep it neutral.

7. Check the sound:

During your practice call, check that your audio is working properly. If you need to be in a public space, find the quietest area and be sure to wear a headset to help block out background noises.

8. Use Headphones:

Some high-quality microphones do a good job of preventing this. However, the easiest way to make sure you won’t annoy your interviewers is by wearing a pair of headphones. Unless you have incredibly loud headphones, your microphone shouldn’t pick up the audio coming from your interviewers.

9. Practice makes perfect:

Doing a run through interview with a friend beforehand is helpful because your first few Skype calls are likely to feel awkward, especially if you have to retrain yourself to watch the camera and not the screen. Play around with everything beforehand so that when it’s interview time, you can shine without being distracted by the program.

10. Be Mindful of Background Noise:

It’s not just the echo of your interviewers’ voices you have to worry about. Do your best to pick a quiet space, so the interviewers can hear you when you speak and don’t hear a racket when they speak. This doesn’t only mean you should find a space that’s quiet at the moment you start the interview.

11. Close other programs on your computer:

Getting Facebook notifications during your interview is distracting and unprofessional. Before your interview, make sure all other windows on your computer are closed (especially if they make noise).

12. Don’t Leave Lights on Behind You:

You want your interviewer to see you, so don’t sit with your back to a strong light. Your webcam will likely adjust to the lighting, and leave you looking like a mysterious silhouette. Your interviewers won’t see your face or your mouth moving, and it won’t help your chances of getting the job

13. Use notes:

Don’t be afraid to help yourself with post-it notes or a copy of your resume handy when you interview. A benefit of having a Skype interview is that you can have a cheat sheet in front of you so that you don’t have to memorize everything you want to mention.

14. Dress for an Interview:

Dress as if you were going into the company’s office to meet your interviewer face-to-face. Wear dress pants or a conservative skirt because you may need to get up and move around during the chat. Shoes and socks are optional; if your feet end up on camera, something else has gone wrong.

15. But don’t rely too much on your notes:

Just make sure your notes are easily scannable so that you use them as quick reminders, not a script. While having notes is certainly a plus, relying too heavily on them can cause awkward pauses during your interview. An interviewer won’t be impressed if they only see the top of your head during the interview, so while having notes is good, be sure to use them sparingly.

16. Think About What Your Interviewer Will See:

A cluttered background may distract your interviewer and if it’s a real mess, it may give them a bad impression. Ideally, find a place with a tidy and plain background so your interviewer can focus on you. The angle of your camera is also important, as you should try to get it level with your face.

17. Don’t Use Skype on Your Phone:

Your phone may be great for a lot of things, but it’s not ideal for conducting an interview. Use the phone if you have no other option, but go with a computer if you can. The larger screen makes it easier for you to see your interviewer, and the higher, more stationary camera lets them get a better angle to see you.