It is common for companies to request an interview via Skype. This cuts downs a lot of costs for both you and the employer during the recruitment process, and is an easy and quick way to get yourself in front of the hiring manager.

However, the Skype interview should still be taken seriously and treated as an in-person interview. Here are some tips so you ace your next virtual interview.

1. Have a professional Skype name. This is the first thing the recruiter will notice.
2. Make sure your picture is also professional. Using your LinkedIn headshot is a good idea.
3. Dress to impress. Even if you think the hiring manager will not see your full outfit, it is still best to dress well from head to toe in case you do need to stand up and also because it will mimic an in-person interview.
4. Use staging. The camera will show what is behind you, so set yourself up in a room that is neat and clean.  
5. Have a strong internet connection. Try to be in a room with strong Wi-Fi and have backup such as an Ethernet cable.
6. Avoid distractions. If you have roommates, inform them you will be interviewing and be in a room away from kids and pets.
7. Practice! Rehearse your interview in front of friends. Record yourself and play back the video, be sure you are looking at the camera rather than at the computer.
8. Relax and good luck! Scoring a Skype interview is a great step in the hiring process, so congrats on getting here! Treat this as an in-person interview and you will do great.

—

                           Cipriani, Belo. “5 Tips for a Successful Skype Interview.” Get To Work, SFGate, 6 June 2014, blog.sfgate.com/gettowork/2014/06/09/5-tips-for-a-successful-skype-interview/.