Hot Tips for Interviewing Like a Pro on Skype, Google Hangout, or Any Other Video Platform  

If you’ve interviewed for a job recently, you probably already know that with all the technology available, it’s not always done in person nowadays. Whether in the interest of time, distance and convenience, companies are opting to conduct interviews via videoconference platforms such as Skype or Google Hangout.

The thought of being interviewed over video can be a little unnerving the first time.  So follow the useful tips below to help you prepare so you can relax and focus on the interview at hand:

Video Interviewing Essentials

Mind the Background

• • • It’s important to keep in mind what the interviewer will see is whatever is behind you, so choose your location wisely. Your background should be simple, as well as clear of distractions. (A blank wall works well.) Above all, you don’t want the interviewer catching a glimpse of the dishes piled up in the kitchen or a pile of laundry on the couch.
    • You may also need to adjust the lighting so you don’t appear washed-out, or so there isn’t a glare.

Testing, Testing, 1, 2, 3

• • • You can do all the preparing in the world, but an unstable internet connection can spell disaster. If possible, try connecting with a friend or family member beforehand to make sure your web connection is solid.
    • Also, tweak the Skype audio ahead of time to make sure you can both hear, and be heard, without difficulty.

Eliminate Distractions

• • • Close other programs on your computer and turn off your cellphone. Getting notifications, phone calls, or texts during your interview is distracting and unprofessional.
    • If you are conducting the interview at home and there are others in the house, make sure they know not to disturb you.  Even better:  conduct the interview in a room where you can close the door to ensure there are no interruptions.

Check that Camera Angle

• • • Whether you’re using the camera on your laptop or a separate webcam, where you place your camera is very important. You are trying to create an atmosphere as similar to an in-person interview as possible, so you need to make sure the camera is at eye-level. This may mean that you need to elevate your laptop or camera on a box or stack of books to get it at the right height so you are looking at it straight-on.
    • Distance is also important, as you want to make sure you aren’t sitting too close to the camera, with your face taking up the entire screen.

Look Into the Camera

• • • This is a big one!When on video with someone, it’s natural for you to want to look at them – but depending on where your camera is, it may appear to the person on the other side of the video that you are looking down at them, instead of right at them. Instead, you want to be looking straight at your camera, and not at the person interviewing you on the screen.
    • So when an interview starts, take a moment to make sure you look okay on the screen, and then focus on looking into the camera. This is something that takes practice and getting used to.

Slow It Down

• • • Sometimes there is a delay in the technology that makes it easy to end up talking over someone. Rule of thumb: wait for the interviewer to stop talking before you answer. This also gives you a little extra time to think about your answer before you speak.
    • What (not) to wear – A first impression over video is just as important as a first impression in person; just because you are at home doesn’t mean you should be more casual. Even if they can’t see most of your outfit, dressing appropriately for the interview will also give you confidence and keep you in a professional mindset.

Remember: this is a live interview, and even though it’s being conducted via video, you should be as prepared as if you were going to an office to meet for a one-on-one. So make sure you are dressed professionally, have all logistics and settings in place before the call.  Then get situated a few minutes ahead of time, and use that time to mentally prepare yourself for the call so you can present “your best possible you” on the screen.