1. Importance of Skype/Video Interviewing
This relatively new process has noticeably grown over the last two years,
however, for some job hunters some confusion still remains regarding how
best to prepare.
Below are the top tips to help you make a great impression when taking a
video interview.
Prepare!
Don’t forget that a video interview is exactly the same concept as a face to
face interview. You will be asked the same types of questions therefore
make sure you prepare your answers in exactly the same way.
Check your tech
Always have a test run of your technology; you want to ensure the quality
of your camera is up to scratch. If it isn’t doing the job well, consider
investing in a new one.
Keep connected
Have a practice run and check your internet connection is as good as
possible. If you know a friend with great internet speed see if you can hold
the interview at their house. Also, if during your interview your
connection is lost, don’t panic. When the interview starts, let your
interviewer know you will call them back if the connection does fail. In
addition, don’t be afraid to tell your interviewer if their connection is
having problems.
Consider the lighting
We all use body language to express ourselves, therefore you need to
consider how clearly your interviewer will be able to see you. Don’t sit
with the window behind you and ensure as much natural light as possible
is coming from in front of you.
Career & Life Planning
Think Act Work Live Better.
www.calp.ie

2. Do not disturb
Wherever you base yourself for your interview, warn
friends/family/housemates of the time and date of it and ensure they don’t
plan to visit you or undertake any noisy cleaning routines. Also consider
your pets; don’t run the risk of your pet cat stealing the show.
Look around you
Your interviewer will not only see you but also your surroundings and will
inevitably judge you on them. Last night’s dinner dishes and your alcohol
collection aren’t the ideal decor for setting a good first impression.
Dress appropriately
Although you’re in a comfortable environment don’t team this with
dressing comfortable. Your interviewer will be trying to visualise you in
their workplace so ensure that you dress with this in mind.
Look into their eyes
When you’re having a Skype interview it can be really difficult to avoid
looking at the small box showing yourself – don’t be tempted to do this
as it will be really off putting for the viewer.
Extra smiles
It is even more important during a video interview to smile when your
interviewer is talking to you – this again helps to aid the lack of physical
rapport and warmth lost from not being in the same room as them.
Post it notes
A plus of a video interview is that you can get away with having notes
around you. However, ensure that you still prepare - don’t overkill the
notes and risk confusing yourself. Also, don’t rely on them; treat them as a
comfort blanket.
Career & Life Planning
Think Act Work Live Better.
www.calp.ie

3. Tidy up your profile
Don’t forget to check your profile picture and user name. Set up a
professional account with your LinkedIn profile picture and your real
name as your username. You should also utilise your bio as a chance to
add a simple and professional summary of yourself.
Talk slowly
It is important in any interview to contain your speed of speech but this is
even more true in a video interview. Make sure that you let your
interviewer finish their question, pause, then answer. Also refrain from
jumping into a question and talking over them.
Say Thank You
Although you didn’t meet in person, saying thank you to your interviewer
is still just as important. Give it 30 minutes and then send across an email.
Try to tailor your thank you message to something that took place in your
interview.
Career & Life Planning
Think Act Work Live Better.
www.calp.ie