MASTER THE SKYPE INTERVIEW

Skype and webcam interviews have made it to primetime.  All the major news outlets use them, but not all the spokespersons interviewed know how to use the medium to advantage.

Here are some basic tips for the Exceptional Spokesperson:

Use good equipment.

Make sure the equipment you are using has optimal image and sound quality, capture speed, excellent resolution and light correcting technology.  Two good models under $100, according to CNET, are Logitech HD Webcam Pro C920 and Microsoft Lifecam Studio Webcam. 

Set up the shot

Check seat height and angle---and avoid chairs that rock or swivel.  Make sure the height of the chair is set so that you don’t stoop down or look up at the camera.  Glance at the lens, not the screen.  Add a mirror or some focal point (I use a small stuffed animal perched next to the lens) to keep your eyes locked on the “eye” of your interviewer .

Check the background and clear the room

The background can work against you if there are random, stray, distracting elements competing with your image.  You can do one of several things: 

1. Use the background to advantage by showing artifacts and props that enhance your message. These could be tools or products of your trade, awards and trophies that speak to your competence.
2. Mask away distracting clutter by setting up a backdrop—either a 5 x 6-foot photo backdrop of a neutral color, logo wall, or simply improvise a backdrop using a blank wall or large piece of fabric in a pastel color, gray or beige. Roll-up photography backdrops that simulate a studio setting are available for under $125 on Amazon.
3. Practice and check the image area before the interview to make sure you are properly framed in the shot and that the backdrop edges are not visible.      

Unplanned backgrounds can distract from the power of your words and appearance.  Clear the room of extraneous elements like plants and picture frames.  Stage and prep the background for greater visual impact. 

Lighting, background and eye contact are essential for a good webcam interview.  Proper diffused lighting, a neutral backdrop and eye-level contact with the lens can turn an amateur interview into a polished one.

Establish the proper distance from the lens and microphone

Avoid fish-eye distortions by finding the right distance from the lens.   A medium shot is preferred so you can use your hands to gesture for emphasis.

Do not over-gesture

Remember that the webcam will slow and exaggerate your movements.  Avoid fast gestures, nodding, shaking your head, rocking in your chair, and rapid speech.  Bandwidth can vary even in the most high-tech office settings so don't assume your speech and movements will always be in sync.

Check the lighting

Set up proper lighting 360—degrees to avoid shadows and compensate for the ghost-like glow of the monitor.  Diffuse desk lamps if necessary with a piece of copy paper or light cloth.  Avoid windows and exterior light sources.

Dress appropriately

Dress as you would for an in-studio interview, though you may just need to do so from the waist up.  Women: remember the basic makeup tips and that less is more.  Men: translucent facial powder will get rid of an oily shine without adding color.

Smile and relax