Job Discussion Forums

[gallerygirl]

Hello,
Sorry, I seem to be flooding the board with questions, but I really appreciate the help everyone has given thus far!

I was recently contacted by a company in Japan who does not have any US recruiting offices - therefore, the interview would need to take place over Skype. Does anyone have any experience with these types of interviews? I know on the technology side, I am all good to go - have my handy dandy headset, my built in webcam, etc.

What I'm wondering is what type of questions to expect. Is it possible they could ask me to present a mock lesson at the spur of the moment? Or would it most likely fall under the category of the traditional interview, wherein they ask basic questions and gauge how articulate and qualified I am.

I know it would help if I gave the name of the company, however, they seem to be a pretty small outlet - I fear if I posted it, they would know I am on these boards asking these types of questions. (I've already done a board and internet search for information about this company and nothing turned up).

Thanks again in advance for your assistance!

[ssjup81]

The type of questions asked, would be the same ones asked if it was a face to face interview. Don't worry over it. It should work out fine.

[Rakis]

I've had a few skype interviews, to be honest they are not something you should stress over. If they are video interviews even better I think.

I've never had to do a mock lesson, but that doesn't mean it won't be asked of you. What they will ask you are the typical things: why should we hire you, what makes you a good candidate, what are your hobbies, explain your resume and experience if applicable. Some questions are general, what are your hobbies, have you gone to Japan before, do you smoke, drink, eat meat (Vegetarians have some difficulty with a lot of cuisine in Japan), etc.

If you want further advice, just PM me.

Smile, try to make them laugh and try to bridge the computer-to-computer gap as much as you can. Success in the interview was just making sure they knew I did my homework on the company, asking essential questions and smiling.

Best of luck, this should be no sweat.

[Glenski]

Remember that interviews are for you to ask questions and learn things, too. Body language, level of English understanding, etc. can all be helpful for you to decide whether you want the job.

Dress professionally.
Act professionally.
Be careful about the background (no laundry or bright lights or any embarrassing / distracting stuff).

[LITTLE PEACHES]

I did my interview via skype, and now that I'm in the job I've asked my employer what they thought about it and why they chose me. A couple reasons that could help you also is, I dressed like I was going to an interview. I spoke slowly, they are all native Japanese and as much as they can speak Japanese, it's not their first langauge and can be difficult. Also you are going to be working with students who are just learning the language, so it's good for them to see a pace that can be learned at. I was confident, and had all information ready.

My school is currently hiring, I wonder if you are interviewing with my school. PM me with that info, if you are I can give you some more little pointers for this site.

[fng]

Glenski offered fine advice. Having been interviewed a few times via Skype video conference, I can tell you that "dressing the part" and treating the interviewer as though you were physically in their presence goes a long way.

In terms of the types of questions you should expect... well... to be perfectly honest, there are so many. Two of the popular ones from what I recall were as follows:

1. What would you do if a student gave you a hard time?
2. Would you be willing to drive?

One thing I was wondering, is this for an ALT or language school position? That really determines the set of questions you're asked.

Good luck either way!