Post: #1

Anyone ever had a Skype interview? Any tips?

I'm doing one for a Japanese company this afternoon. I've always rocked traditional in person interviews, but never done Skype. Never even used Skype before, actually. I've bought a decent quality webcam and headset, know what I'm going to wear, and set up my background to be clean and to also include a few items that express who I am. I'm more excited than nervous about the whole thing, but still feel a touch of anxiety over doing something new. Talking to a computer just seems strange. I welcome any insight.

Post: #2

I did once some years ago. I recorded myself while answering potential questions, and watched on my computer. It helps with the voice tone and how one looks. I am glad I did it.

Post: #3

Test everything before the interview with a friend, to make sure there won't be technical issues.

Post: #4

Remember to make sure it looks like you're making eye contact on camera. Depending on your setup, looking at the interviewer on your screen can make you appear to be avoiding eye contact or are staring off into space.

Post: #5

Is your japanese company job a sales job?

I've done several skype and phone interviews the last years.
Its a cheaper screening for the company. Do your preparation- what does the company do?
Why you want the job?
Why are you the right person?

General stuff. Dress nice, and check whats in your background. Also make sure that nobody disturb you or your phone rings.

Post: #6

If possible use a headset microphone. Sound quality on skype calls is dodgy sometimes, and they may be sitting away from the computer, making it hard for both sides to hear.

Post: #7

Thanks for the input, guys! I've tested sound via Skype echo service, much better with a headset mic. It's not a sales job, but I will be working directly with customers. It's very similar to the job I have now so I will be dressing slightly better than I do everyday at work. Background is set, non-distracting with some attractive decor.

Post: #8

(09-14-2018 11:33 AM)Faust Wrote:  If possible use a headset microphone. Sound quality on skype calls is dodgy sometimes, and they may be sitting away from the computer, making it hard for both sides to hear.

I use a hands-free bluetooth paired to the laptop, less noticeable:

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B010R496J4/ref...UTF8&psc=1

Post: #9

Follow up:

Everything went off without a hitch. I got used to the whole talking-to-a-computer thing within the first 30 seconds and it felt just like a normal conversation for the rest of the half hour. No technical issues aside from a little lag, which is to be expected. The gentlemen were very easy to talk to, no language barrier issues whatsoever. I had to conciously focus on making eye contact with the lens while speaking, but it felt natural after awhile. Should hear back from them within a week whether they decide to fly me over for an in-person interview.

Thanks for the tips, everyone. I was over thinking a tad, but any anxiety melted away once things got started.

Post: #10

This is getting normal now. I know now quite a few who get hired over such interviews. It's a normal interview.

Post: #11

So OP, did you get hired?

Post: #12

Totally forgot about this post.

Yup, got the job. Been traveling essentially non-stop around the US and abroad for four months straight, spending on average about four days at home a month, but it's a been a great gig so far! Including per diem I've more than doubled my income and been to some great (and not so great) places.