Since I mainly work out of my virtual office, I do a lot of Skype and “FaceTime” interviews.
This has been an interesting week of Skype interviews, so I thought I would share what NOT to do during these types of interviews. I’m going to cut these folks some slack because this was for an entry level job. Experience often brings wisdom.
First and foremost, this is still an interview. That means you will need to shave and dress appropriately.
You don’t have to wear a suit, but definitely clean yourself up. This week, I have also witnessed the following four additional transgressions:
#1—Unshaven and unkempt appearance
I’m pretty sure one of the people had just “rolled out of bed.”
#2—A dirty house
Please move your laptop to a location where I am not looking at your messy kitchen or bedroom with drawers pulled out and things all over the floor. It really gives the appearance that you aren’t very organized or “put together.”
#3—Inability to figure out Skype
If you can’t figure out Skype, then I’m concerned about your ability to do tech support. I am not a “techie,” and while I’ve become more technical since I started my own business and am basically the “CTO” of my company, I’ve had no issues figuring out how to get Skype to work.
#4—Inability to upgrade technology
One candidate went on a diatribe about how a webcam isn’t important. I know you might be swimming in student loan debt, but please, if your computer doesn’t have video capability, figure out how to get it.
Here is some other general interview advice:
If I ask what you think about the opportunity, it might serve you better to focus on the positives of the role vs. “Well, I guess its something besides what I’ve got.”
If I ask what your ideal position is, it might make sense to have a better answer than, “The challenge is going to be getting out of bed in the morning.”
There’s a saying: “You can put lipstick on a pig, but it’s still a pig.” The same goes for interviews.
Whether it’s in-person, Skype, GoToMeeting, or FaceTime, it’s still an interview . . . so definitely treat it like one! If you would like a free copy of my Interview tips- please email me at deb@truenorthkc.com