Skype Interviews - More and More Common

I have been Skyped interviewed a few years back as part of HR screening.

Basically, some key points, avoid backgrounds with distractions (I.e. a white wall behind is good). Control your lighting. Make sure you are visible to your computer's camera. Monitor you distance to the screen -and do a sound check.

A lot of companies are using Skype for HR screening and 1st discussion with hiring manager. It saves costs of flying in a "un vetted" candidate, especially in this cost/budget constricted world. Certainly HR is also a department that needs to contribute to reduced costs.

I'm not clear that Skype is being used for an entire interview process through job offer -, I have not heard of this yet in my industry or area of work, the Face to Face is a necessary component especially as the candidate progresses in the process.

DX

I'm not clear that Skype is being used for an entire interview process through job offer -, I have not heard of this yet in my industry or area of work, the Face to Face is a necessary component especially as the candidate progresses in the process.

DX

I think you're right here. You have to see a candidate and actually be in the room with him or her. That's what companies need to do before a hiring decision.

But Skype can sure cut through the BS and show you who is sharp and who is not. And, the thing to remember about a Skype, or any brand of video, interview is that it highlights weird things and not necessarily what you think it will highlight. It's so distracting when people don't remember these basic tips, or when they have no concern for the camera angle, and so forth. I've seen so many good candidates do bad video interviews -- I think it can be a disaster waiting to happen for many. That's why it takes preparation and consideration of all these elements,

Dave

This is an excellent video. One thing that he should have added is "look in the mirror to make certain that your tie is straight." Note that his is not.

Readers:

The latest Tooling Up column addresses some further fine-tuning of video interviewing, at the following link:
http://sciencecareers.sciencemag.org/career_magazine/previous_issues/articles/2015_07_22/caredit.a1500183

It was just published today.

Dave

RGM:

The in-person interview is very relevant and very important for those "home-based" positions. Those are usually in sales or technical service, and are client-facing positions. The in-person interview allows the hiring manager to see the candidate as the client will see him or her - there is no substitute for that.

Dick