Skype interview

Today with organizations getting even more cost conscious, the skype interview or video interview is gaining momentum. Let’s look at how it works.

Pros:

• It is a cost-effective medium used during the interview selection process.
• It saves time of the interviewer and interviewee as it saves planning, coordination and travelling time of both the parties.
• Bridges gap of distance between the interviewer and interviewee.
• No worry of re-scheduling incase the interviewer has something urgent which comes up.
• The video or skype interview can be conducted at any time of the day depending on the interviewer and interviewee availability.
• Start up companies may not have the infrastructure to conduct an interview so then a video interview works well.
• Video interviews can be effectively used for all cross- country interviews.

Cons:

• The video or skype may not be simple to use for many candidates.
• There could be technical glitches which happen.
• A skype active account will be required.
• A well lit room would be required for both the interviewer and interviewee.

Guidelines on Skype interview or video interview

This form of interview is as formal as a face to face interview so you need to all the required ‘Do’s’ and ‘Don’t’s’

• Test run your equipment a day before your interview as well as 1 hour before the interview time slot.
• Your attire needs to be business formals.
• Light up your room or modify the room lighting if required by adding additional lamps.
• The room you plan to use for your interview needs to be soundproof.
• Keep your document file and a stationery kit ready.
• Plan for any kind of technical glitches.
• Confirm the time of the interview with the recruiter one day prior.
• Keep your cell phone and other gadgets on silent mode.
• During the video interview, check if you are audible at all times.
• Don’t be tempted to start messaging if you are using your laptop to do the video interview.
• Maintain eye contact with the interviewer (s) with the use of the camera.
• Your eyes should be in line with the camera, this will be a comfortable position.
• Greet the panel member (s) at the start of the interview.
• Speak in formal business communication.
• Be courteous and Be polite.
• Don’t show your company or your manager in negative light.
• Be yourself.
• Be honest
• Take down notes when required.
• Don’t use jargon.
• Don’t use slang
• Speak slowly and politely.
• Don’t cross talk and wait for your turn.
• Don’t reveal confidential information during the video interview call.
• Don’t start walking around in the room, stay put on a chair.
• Don’t adjust your clothes or hair continuously.
• Don’t sip your coffee or eat snacks during the interview.
• Try sitting against a blank wall otherwise this will be a distraction for the interviewer (s).
• After the interview, quickly thank the interviewer (s) for taking time out and giving you the opportunity.
• Once you finish the interview, don’t start pestering the interviewer via skype.