How to be successful in skype interviews

The Middle East is experiencing a period of rapid growth, with the financial services sector in particular establishing a strong foothold in the region. 

This growth has seen a massive influx of labour from around the globe, drawn by the opportunity to work in one of the world's most exciting economies. 

This has seen a fundamental change to the way the interview process is conducted, with video-chat tools such as Skype increasingly used to bridge the distance between employers and candidates. 

This has seen a fundamental change to the way the interview process is conducted, with video-chat tools such as Skype increasingly used to bridge the distance between employers and candidates. 

Prepare

Always prepare thoroughly before your interview, so you will feel confident even if there are technical glitches that may make interview nerves worse. Even if you are a regular user of Skype for speaking to friends and family, remember that an interview is a business meeting. For that reason it's also important that your username is as professional as possible.

Check your internet connection. If it is possible to use a wired connection rather than wifi this will offer a more reliable video feed. Having checked your connection, a practice Skype interview should be undertaken. During your practice you can check the volume of the microphone along with the positioning of the video camera.

The lighting of the room should be tested and the appropriateness of your surroundings should be considered. Creating a quiet and professional environment is crucial for your interview because if there are any distractions, it will come across as unprofessional.

Lastly, make sure you are dressed appropriately for the job interview. Although you are on video and not meeting an interviewer in person you need to dress appropriately. The common rule is that you should wear whatever you would wear to a face to face interview.

During The Skype Interview

A good first impression is essential, making direct eye contact and smiling throughout the interview will show that you are personable and interested in the job. To ensure that the interviewer can hear you, make sure you speak slowly and clearly.

Remember that even though you are at home on your computer, your interviewer can always see you. Therefore, making sure you are sat up straight with a good posture and staying alert and present throughout the interview will stand you in good stead.