phone and skype interview tips

In today's global job market, it is not always possible to conduct interviews of potential job candidates in person. Because of this, telephone and Skype interviews are becoming increasingly more commonplace. While the main goal of these new types of interviews is still to evaluate potential job candidates, they require the applicant to adjust their typical interview preparation. Here are some Skype and phone interview tips that could help you ace your next remote interview.

Be Prepared

A common mistake that interviewees often make if they are unfamiliar with this type of interview is thinking that it is more casual than a standard interview. This is not the case. The employer is still evaluating you, so it is important to prepare for your phone or Skype interview just as you would for a traditional interview. This includes:

  • Updating your résumé - The interviewer will likely draw some questions from the information on your résumé, so it is important that it is accurate, up to date and explains any gaps in your employment history.
  • Reviewing common interview questions - While you do not need to have pre-written answers, you should take the time to come up with a general idea of what you would like to convey to the interviewer. Develop a list of talking points to work into the conversation, including any information the employer may find noteworthy and will help you stand out from other applicants.
  • Researching the company - Keep in mind that you are evaluating the potential employer just as much as they are evaluating you. Try to prepare three to five insightful, thought-provoking questions about the organization to show that you are interested in the position and looking towards the future.

Create a Conducive Space

While it may sound appealing to go through the interview while lying on your couch, this will not get you into the right mindset for a successful interview. Instead, choose a spot where you can sit upright to be more alert. Have a pen and paper handy so that you can take notes. If you have prepared any notes for yourself about your talking points or questions for the interviewer, have them close by as well. While on the telephone, the interviewer may not realize that you have run across the room to grab a pen, but this will definitely be noticeable during a Skype interview, so be prepared!

Also, make sure that you will have a clear connection during the interview. If you are using your cell phone, make sure that you get a strong signal in your house. For Skype interviews, check with your Internet provider to ensure that your connection is powerful enough to handle video conferencing. There is nothing worse than an interviewer constantly having to ask you to repeat yourself due to a weak connection.

Free Yourself from Distractions

During your phone or Skype interview, you need to make sure that all of your focus is on the task. Turn off your TV or radio and clear your chosen space from clutter. You will not be able to focus on your interview while being reminded of the pile of laundry in the corner of the room that needs to be put away. If you share your home with others, make sure that they know that you will be in an interview and are not to be disturbed. If you have children, you may want to consider arranging care for them outside of your home, either with a friend, family member, or daycare center so they will not interrupt you during your interview.

Dress for Success

During a telephone interview, the interviewer will not be able to see you, but that is no excuse to conduct the interview in your pajamas. This can trick your brain into thinking your interview is a casual conversation, so dress as you would for any other interview to get yourself into the proper mindset to be professional. This is even more important during Skype interviews. Make sure that you are well groomed. For men, trim or shave your facial hair to present a clean look. For women, apply light makeup to complement your features, but do not go overboard. Remember, you are applying for a job, not going to a nightclub.

Get Help from ECPI University’s Career Services Department

The career services department at ECPI University can help you prepare for your interview. Our career orientation teaches you effective résumé writing techniques so that potential employers notice you. This seminar also includes mock interviews to help you prepare your answers for common interview questions and to offer tips on how you can improve your interviewing skills.

Contact ECPI today to speak with one of our career services professionals to learn more about how we can help you. It could be the Best Decision You Ever Make!

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