Tips for Skype Interview Success

Today’s job search has gone high-tech. From career networking online to using social media to build your online brand, being web savvy is to every job seeker’s advantage. One phenomenon of the Internet age is the Skype interview. An increasing number of recruiters are using online web interviews to screen candidates and conduct initial interviews. A great option for professionals willing to relocate or looking to feel out an opportunity before committing to an in-person interview, they can also be stressful – especially if you’ve never even used Skype. Fortunately for most veterans, Skype is second nature, being so often used to keep in touch with family back home. But a Skype interview for your next job is a far cry from a call home to mom. Here are a few tips to help you out.

1. Get an account before you need it, and make sure your user name is professional. Even if you’ve never been asked to use Skype for an interview, get an account now. You don’t want the first time you’re using it to be when a recruiter asks, and it is definitely best to be able to express confident familiarity before your next potential employer asks.
   
2. Practice. This is a great time to reconnect with family and friends you may not have chatted with in awhile – kill two birds with one stone by scheduling regular Skype calls and putting these tips to use when you do. Ask your family for feedback on your video quality and appearance and if they’re game, even have them role-play a potential interview with you.
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