What’s free, has 663 Million users, has an app for every smart phone from the iPhone to Droid and Blackberry and can be used on either a Mac or PC?
If you said skype you’re in tune with the video technology, launched in 2003, that has become a popular choice for many of today’s hiring managers. As a career coach I began offering skype-based coaching sessions two years ago and in the past six months, clients sessions via skype have increased by 250%.
Virtual in-person connection
In today’s global business market, with hiring decisions made by managers throughout the country and oftentimes the world, video interviews offer companies a low-cost option to make a virtual in-person connection with candidates.
Think In-Person
When coaching clients via Skype, they’re often surprised at what I can see and hear; for example, each keystroke they make I can hear through the video. This is just one of the many things we adjust when preparing for the live video interview. Here are a few more video interview tips for you to use next time.
Five ways to increase your video interview success:
- Dress for the Interview, from the waist up. Your hair, neck, ears and collar all show clearly for the most part.
- Test your technology. Double check your camera and audio work well.
- Avoid distractions. Noise, action and movements (e.g. dogs, kids, wind, sunlight) will be picked up and detract from your professional results.
- Beautiful background. Set your system up where the background is professional (e.g. chair, desk, plant, wall)
- Print your notes. Keystrokes can be heard on skype; printing out notes and questions allows you to focus your eyes on the camera.
Closing the deal
Landing an interview is a success unto itself whether it’s via phone, video or in-person. Once the interview has ended it’s important to close the deal and ask for the job, in a subtle way of course. Ask a question similar to,“Can you share with me the next steps in your hiring process?” or “When do you plan on making a decision?”
Always send a thank you, even for a video interview, ideally both email and handwritten with 24 hours.
