I love using Skype. and more and more of my clients are chosing this approach. There are so many benefits:
- No need to waste time on travel
- It’s easier to focus, less time is spent on small talk
- You can fit Skype into your day perhaps at lunchtime or from the comfort of your home
- You can use Skype from your computer, tablet or phone
- We still get to see each other
- It’s easy for me to record the call and send you the link so you can listen again.
- You save money, I offer a reduced price fee for sessions by Skype
- and Skype is free!
If you have never used Skype before you can download the software to your computer or get the app for your phone or tablet.
Here is the link to download it – https://www.skype.com/en/download-skype/skype-for-computer/
and I don’t mind if you are in your PJs or in a room that needs a tidy but if you have to do a Skype Interview with a potential boss:
- If you have never used Skype before, set up a few video calls with friends or family.
- Adjust the settings to ensure that you are clearly in shot, and make sure you don’t set the zoom too high –your face shouldn’t fill the screen; have some background as well.
- The background should be neutral; you don’t want the interviewer to be distracted by the objects in your room.
- Think about lighting – they need to be able to see you, so close curtains if it is too sunny and have the lights on if the room is dark.
- Test the technology to make sure you are heard. Just as with your email address, make sure you have a professional Skype name.
- Make the video of your interviewer full-screen so that you are not distracted by anything else on your computer.
- Turn off any sounds or notifications that might pop up in the background. Turn off your mobile phone and ensure family and pets will not disturb you.
- Check how you look on the screen and make adjustments to the camera angle. If you use a laptop, place it on a stable surface rather than have it wobbling on your knees.
- Wear business clothes, and not just on your top half – you may need to stand up!
- Look at the camera rather than the screen to help give the appearance of eye contact.
- Prepare to the same extent as you would for an in-person meeting. Have pen and paper ready so you can make notes
- Be cautious when having notes you refer to; each time you look at them you are not looking at the screen.
