This is a quick guide for you to use WeChat (微信) to do (video) interview:

Introduction

WeChat is the biggest social media platform in China, with over 900 million monthly users. It is a must-have IM app for anyone living in China.

People living outside China may use other IM app (such as Whatsapp, Line, Skype, FB Messenger, etc.), unfortunately other major IM are all BANNED in China. So it’s very difficulty for ask Chinese internet user to use a non-WeChat IM app if he or she lives in China (it is possible to use other IM if they have VPN installed).

How to get WeChat

It’s actually really easy to set up a WeChat account. The process is very similar to Whatsapp, in that you need to download the WeChat app from the app store (iTunes, Google Play etc.) and create an account using your phone number. Don’t forget pick a username which can be easily share with others later.

Adding Friends

Once account is ready to go it’s time to start making friends. Adding people on WeChat is quick and easy, so it’s great for networking or if you’re on the go.

You can add friends a few ways. The first is to search for their username or phone number, and the second is to scan their personalised QR code.

Adding Contacts by Username & Phone Number

1. Click the ” + ” icon at the top right hand of your home screen.
2. Click the space beside the search icon which says “WeChat ID/ Phone.”
3. Type the username/ phone number into the space saying “WeChat ID/ Phone.”
4. When you type in the username, click on the green search button that appears.
5. Their contact card will appear on your screen. Click “Add”
6. You’re now connected!

How to Communicate

In WeChat, you can text, send voice messages, make phone calls and make video calls (similar to Skype.)

Video Calling

You will most likely use a WeChat video call for your interview with your host company, so it’s important you know how to make one!

1. Open the right conversation- either an existing chat with the contact, or open a new chat by finding the contact in your contacts list.
2. Open the chat menu by pressing the ” + ” button at the bottom of your conversation screen.
3. Select the option for a video call.
4. You’re ready to go!

The same method applies to starting a voice call.

The chat menu in your WeChat conversations has all the options for the different ways to communicate.

 

Once you have your WeChat set up you are ready to start your (video) call/interview in China!