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I don't really have a lot of experience using Skype and have a Skype interview scheduled for later this week. Since I've never really used Skype, just wanted to get some general Skype usage tips to make sure that the interview goes smoothly. Anything I should know to make sure that I don't make any newbie mistakes? I feel like it's all pretty common sense, like a plain, solid background, decent lighting, make sure camera/audio work, etc. Better any specific tips like how to frame yourself in the camera, places to specifically avoid (like are windows bad backdrops), etc. Just trying to make sure that there's nothing simple that I haven't overlooked...

Don't overthink it, which you clearly are.

I've done Skype interviews in my underwear (wearing a dress shirt on top, of course). Just be relaxed and be yourself.

I highly recommend the half-suit (business on top, pajamas on bottom - like a mullet), just remember not to get up until call is over.

If you don't use Skype a lot, just chat on it before to get a feel for it. Trying to figure out eye-contact type stuff on Skype or FaceTime kind of creeps me out.

Know how to troubleshoot the technology if you have a connection problem.

If you live anywhere but alone, make sure everyone knows not to interrupt you. On a similar note, securely lock all pets somewhere else. (I once had an escape artist cat get out of a closet and jump onto my laptop during a Skype interview.)

make eye contact with your camera not your interviewer's eyes

seizmaar wrote:make eye contact with your camera not your interviewer's eyes

Although I try to do this, it feels so damn weird.

Frame it as a mid chest level and up portrait. Also, make sure the area around you won't be making noise. Nothing like sitting for an interview and your neighbors start yelling or mowing their yards.

Be aware of what will be visible in the background behind you. You may not want to have a "finish your beer, there's sober kids in India" wall poster as the backdrop for your interview...

Use the Skype test audio feature to make sure it's working properly.

seizmaar wrote:make eye contact with your camera not your interviewer's eyes

This is probably the biggest one, as awkward as it is not a lot of people do it. It gives them eye contact rather than staring at the chest or the table in front of them. It's similar to a real interview and I'm sure you'll do alright.

RCSOB657 wrote:Frame it as a mid chest level and up portrait.

THIS.

Put your laptop on top of some phone books so that your camera is at your eye level, finally a use for those things.

You will be more comfortable (and look more professional) because you can sit up straight, not hunched over looking down at your laptop camera. And they won't be looking up your nose the whole time.

I also try to frame the shot or arrange things such that the person I'm speaking to's eyes are as close to the camera as possible so it at least LOOKS like I'm looking at them. Like how on the news you can't really tell they are looking at the teleprompter just above the camera.

Dean Perez
Texas Tech Law

didn't scoobers write a ridiculous guide to skype interviews