Unfortunately, it is that time of year when everyone is panicking about the future and searching for an internship or job. 

Seeing as I am 1,000 miles away from the U.S and at least six hours ahead in terms of time, interviews for internships and jobs are proving to be a bit tricky. So to avoid the many mistakes I have already made, here is some advice to help you prepare for a Skype interview.

If you are studying abroad, like I am, make it very clear which time zone you are talking about. Do the calculations yourself between your time and the employer’s. In this situation, your schedule is the flexible one. Not only will it be much appreciated by the busy person with whom you have to talk, but it makes the process a lot more efficient. Trust me, missing an interview due to a silly mistake, like getting the time wrong, does not reflect well on you and very few will be willing to reschedule.

Once you have organized the Skype interview, prepare yourself. This applies to any interview. You never want to enter the conversation knowing nothing about the company or organization, even if that just means doing a basic Google search to find out about the history or the main goal of a potential employer. This is helpful because in many interviews one of the first questions is, “What do you already know about our company?” If silence ensues, you haven’t gotten off to the greatest start. But, if you are able to share at least one  intelligent comment, it shows that you have genuine interest in what they do and that you are eager for the opportunity. 

Advance research also helps you prepare for the usual final question: “Do you have any questions for us?” Having something to ask reflects your genuine interest in the position. Finally, research helps you prepare for the entire interview. You want to be able to relate your answers to specific aspects of the company or focus on certain parts of your background that you know they look for in an employee. For this, Google can be your best friend.

Dress code is critical. You may be sitting in your comfy room where the dress code is sweats and a tank, but that is not what a future employer wants to see. This doesn’t necessarily mean business suits and blouses, just an overall presentable and neat appearance. 

Skype is focused mainly on the upper half of the body, but I highly advise against doing the interview while still in your boxers or your pajamas even though your hair loosk good and you're wearing a nice shirt. My friend was doing an interview for an internship in New York and made this tragic mistake. When she had to collect her phone from across the room, she stood up and realized too late. It’s not worth the risk or the embarrassment. 

Finally, this may seems small but can do a world of difference: smile. When you are first introduced, ask the interviewer how they are. You want to show them you are a welcoming and considerate person who can mix well with their work environment. So slap on that cheesy grin, make sure your dirty laundry isn’t strewn about your floor and get to impressing!