Can you repeat that? Top training tips for the Skype job interview

Top training tips for handling the Skype job interview

If you’re looking for a job interstate or overseas chances are you may have a job interview over Skype. While this is similar to a face to face interview, there are some important differences. So what are they? Can you do a Skype interview in your “newsreader outfit” with your pyjama bottoms hidden under the desk? Apparently not, or so says Bronwyn Murphy from BJ&M Consulting. We’ll believe her. Bronwyn runs interview skills training courses for recruitment consultants. Here are her top training tips for winning your Skype interview.

KB: What’s difficult about a Skype interview?

BM: Sometimes the connection can be slow, which can make communication frustrating. There’s a bit of delay. So both parties need to be patient, and wait until the party stops speaking, before launching into what they want to say.

KB: Have you ever offered anyone a job just from a Skype interview?

BM: That would depend on the role. In a solo job, say as a software engineer, where the candidate would not need too much interaction with the team, I would. However if the job was one where I needed to see how they related to people, say business development, I would need to see them face to face.

KB: What can you tell from a face to face interview, that you can’t tell over Skype?

BM: Physically interviewing someone in the flesh, you can see their body language. You get more of that gut feel. You can see their facial micro mannerisms. All these actually go into assessments we make of people. In a face to face job interview you hear more of someone’s tone. That also goes into how I translate meaning.

KB: Should you accept a job offer over Skype?

BM: Probably not. One thing that is important to do before you accept a job just from a Skype interview, is to remember that you should see your working environment. That can make a real difference to whether you are happy in your new job.

KB: So what are your top training tips for handling a Skype interview?

BM: Give yourself some private space. Do not do these interviews from work. Remove any distractions, shut the door, turn off the mobile and focus. Don’t have a cup of tea or coffee with you. This isn’t like a chat in a café. Dress formally, and you’ll put yourself in the mood for the interview.

KB: So no pyjama bottoms, then?

BM: No!

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Tagged as: Interview Tips, secrets from recruitment consultants, Skype job interview