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Interviewing for an International Teaching Position via Skype

By AAEE — February 28, 2013 2 min read
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Skype is the most common way to interview for an international teaching position. It may sound like a relief to be able to interview from the comforts of your own home, but there are a few things you should remember:

1. Dress up. Like with any interview you may have, your interviewer will expect you to look professional. We suggest something conservative and simple. Busy patterns can come across as distracting when you are on a small computer screen. Also, make sure your don’t just dress from the waist up. You never know if you might have to stand up or walk across the room to get something.
2. Relax! Call a friend or family member before your interview and just chat. It will help you relax and appear less nervous during your interview. This also gives you a chance to check your Skype connection, microphone volume and lighting in your room.
3. Set the mood! Turn off your cell phone and lock your door so no one can come in and distract you. If you wear glasses, you may want to turn down the brightness of your monitor to avoid unwanted reflections.
4. Look straight into your computer camera when speaking. Some people have the habit of looking at their own picture when they are talking instead of the camera. Looking straight into the camera makes you appear more confident.
5. Make sure you answer the question that is being asked. If you don’t understand the question, ask your interviewer to repeat it. Answering interview questions with clarity is imperative to landing your dream job!
6. Ask questions that are school specific. This lets the interviewer know that you have done your homework and researched their school. A school wants to hire teachers that want to be at THEIR school, not people who want a job wherever they can get one.
7. Give your interviewer a chance to brag. Ask your interviewer what they like best about their school and the region or area of the school. This gives them a chance to talk about positive things...that leaves a lasting impression and a really good feeling when they think back on the interview.
8. Know your interviewer’s name and use it. This gives that personal touch.
9. Make sure your Skype call is disconnected at the end of the interview. Summarizing the interview to a friend when your Skype is still connected could be quite embarrassing!
10. Send a follow-up email the day after your interview. Include details about your interview as well as confirmation that you are the perfect candidate for the job.

Shanna Mack
Co-Founder and Director
Global Services in Education, Ltd.

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