This document provides an overview and instructions for using Skype professionally. It discusses what Skype is, tips for using it professionally such as preparing your environment and mannerisms, how to set up an account and get started using Skype, and instructions for practicing Skype calls with a partner. The goal is to help people effectively use Skype for business meetings, workshops, and job interviews.

1. Skype - Professional Digital Communication
DIGITAL LITERACY & PROFESSIONALISM

2. Please take a few moments to fill out the pre-workshop survey.
Photo by Margaret Almon via Creative Commons License: https://www.flickr.com/photos/nutmegdesigns/5661569384
https://www.flickr.com/photos/mckaysavage/2225262197/

3. Digital Literacy & Professionalism
This workshop is one of a series made by possible by a Digital
Literacy & Professionalism grant from the Washington State
Library.

4. Skype - Workshop overview
• What is Skype?
• Using Skype Professionally
• Setting the Stage
• Mannerisms & Speech
• Getting Started
• Create an Account
• Practice Skyping!

5. What is Skype?
● Online video, audio, and messaging tool that uses the internet and/or
phone lines to connect people who use a variety of devices.
● Users are listed by “Skype Name” in the “Skype Directory”
● Features:
○ Instant messaging
○ Voice chat
○ Video chat
○ Screen sharing
○ Group chat
○ Video conferences

6. Using Skype Professionally
● More day-to-day business meetings,
workshops, and job interviews are being
conducted online.
● Knowing how to effectively use
communication technologies at work is
important in this increasingly digital world.
Photo by elycefiliz via flickr Creative Commons License. https://www.flickr.com/photos/elycefeliz/3243280591

7. Setting the Stage - a few tips
It is important to thoughtfully set the stage for your professional Skype interaction.
• Prepare and test your devices and technology ahead of time
• Consider what will be seen and heard during your Skype call
• Try to anticipate and prevent distractions
• Make sure you have plenty of light
• Dress professionally
• Post notes for yourself “off-stage”
• Have all documents you might need handy
• Keep your phone nearby in case of technology failure (but turn off the ringer)
http://studentaffairscollective.org/preparing-for-your-next-skype-interview/ http://hacklibschool.wordpress.com/2014/02/27/skype/

8. Mannerisms & Speech - a few tips
Be mindful of nonverbal and verbal communication.
● Have good posture
● Avoid distracting gestures or movements
● Beware of using too many filler words, like “um” and
“so” and “you know”
● Position the camera in a flattering angel
● Look into the camera rather than your at your screen in
order to “make eye contact”
● Pay attention to body language- yours and theirs
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9. Getting Started - what will you need?

10. Getting Started - Create your free account
• http://www.skype.com/
• Click the “Sign In” link
• Choose “Create an account”
• Choose a name appropriate for a job interview or meeting
• Fill out your account and Profile information
• Record your Skype Name on your checklist sheet

11. Pair & Prepare to Practice
• Find a partner
• Choose an ipad, laptop, or computer with webcam, grab a set
of headphones
• iPad users need to locate the Skype app
• Computer & laptop users will need to download Skype...

12. Download Skype (computers & laptops)
• Go to http://www.skype.com/
• Click the “Downloads” link
• Choose the appropriate device icon.
• Click on the “Get Skype for…”
• When the “Opening SkypeSetupFull.exe” window comes up,
choose “Save File”

13. Connect!
• http://www.skype.com/
• Choose “Sign In”
• Enter your Skype Name & Password
• Click on “Sign me in”

14. Practice
● Look up your partner in the directory
● Call your partner
● Use your checklist sheet to practice
Practice Session by Dan Mills via flickr Creative Commons license: https://www.flickr.com/photos/thunder/150914881

15. Where to get more information and help?
•Skype support link: http://support.skype.com/
•Contact the library: library@btc.ctc.edu
•Contact eLearning: elearninghelp@btc.ctc.edu
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16. Questions?

17. Please complete the post-workshop survey before you go.
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