When you land an interview for a job you want, the interview process can be extremely nerve-wracking. You want to make the right impression and show the interviewers that you are the right person for the job. And now, with more and more interviews happening over Skype and over the phone, there are a few things you have to be aware of and be prepared for.

 

Here are a few tips to help you ace your phone and Skype interviews:

1. Prepare your environment and connection

Preparing for your Skype or phone interview means adding a few more steps to your interview preparation process. You have to ensure that you and your interviewer can hear and see each other clearly. Here is a checklist to help you do that:

  • Check that you have a strong internet connection or good signal for your phone
  • Check that the area you are in is well-lit and quiet
  • Check that your surroundings are neat and decluttered (for a Skype interview)
  • Check the sound quality and ensure that there is not too much of an echo
  • Check that your device’s battery is charged (if you are using a laptop, tablet, or cell phone)

 

2. Keep notes on hand for reference

The great thing about phone and Skype interviews is that you have the opportunity to prepare some notes and keep them nearby for reference. This does not mean you should write out full answers to potential interview questions and read them out during your interview. Simply jotting down key words and points to remember is enough. Here is a checklist to help you prepare:

  • Check that you have your CV and the job description on hand to refer to during the interview
  • Check that you have written down your own questions for the interviewer
  • Check that you have made bullet points of the things you would like to mention or highlight about yourself and your skills

 

3. Take note of your body language and your tone

When you are doing your interview via Skype or over the phone, you need to pay attention to your body language and your tone, just as you would in a face-to-face interview. Here is a checklist to help you out:

  • Check that you maintain good posture and face your computer during your interview
  • Check that you maintain eye contact by looking into the camera of your computer
  • Check that you speak clearly with a good pace
  • Check that you don’t fidget a lot during your interview

 

Bonus tip: End your Skype or phone interview the right way

Just like in a face-to-face interview, there are a few general rules that you should adhere to, to ensure that you end off your interview on a high note. Here is a checklist for you to go through:

  • Check that you thank your interviewer (and follow up with a ‘thank you’ email afterwards)
  • Check with your interviewer what the next steps will be and when you can expect feedback
  • After the interview: Check that you have sent through any extra documentation or additional information that may have been discussed

 

Preparing for an interview can be nerve-wracking, but by applying these tips and using these checklists, it is possible to get through your interview smoothly. With phone and Skype interviews, remember to check your connection and signal, prepare notes to use, and mind your body language and tone.

Lastly, ensure that you look the part, even for your phone interview, because when you look good, you feel good!

 

Looking for more interview tips?

Read: Power Tips for Interviews – Get That Job