I asked Ivan Veretelnyk about his site, PrimeSkype.com.

SJ> What is PrimeSkype.com?

PrimeSkype.com has been started as unofficial "directory of Skype prime services" to connect service sellers and buyers.

With time I have extended it with new features and now it is a community website for people who use Skype software.

SJ> Why did you start it?

To join the Skype community in one place.

Skype is an excellent communication tool, and if you:

1. Seek new friends or business partners – post your profile and other people can find you

2. Want to chat – join exiting chats or create a public chat and publish it in directory

3. Look for services or offer one – there is a consulting marketplace where service buyers can find a consultant or post consulting job listings; consultants can advertise services in the directory or apply for jobs.

There are tools for private messages, groups and forums which in conjunction with Skype software is a really good way for communication.

SJ> Who should use PrimeSkype.com?

Any Skype user can use it, but mostly people who are:

• Buying or selling consulting services

• Seeking for new connections (or reconnect with friends), friends, partners.

• Searching for chats in particular categories of interests.

SJ> How much does it cost?

Membership is completely free and I don’t plan any paid services for members.

In case of “Skype prime” paid calls, the website just provides directory service and I don’t see something to pay for.

SJ> Do you think Skype's SkypeFind directory competes with you?

No, I don’t think so. PrimeSkype.com is not willing to compete with any “Skype, Limited” services. PrimeSkype.com is willing to extend (supplement, enlarge) Skype features, but never to compete.

People can use both SkypeFind and PrimeSkype.com to get results they need.

SJ> What three things can service providers do now to better market and promote their Skype services?

First of all they need to offer essential (needed, important) services. If nobody needs it, provider will not be hired.

A provider should polish web profile, post background and qualifications to show that he/she is really proficient in their particular area to offer.

If someone will post a profile with only one line like “I can teach you to build a website” and another will post a profile including links to certifications (Brainbench, ExpertRating) will show what he/she did before and have good recommendations – I will choose the second provider.

I see that many people are too lazy to post a photo/userpic which is the first thing to separate themselves from others and get attention.

SJ> What should buyers look for to be safe online when buying live services?

I think main part is payments options. But with “Skype Prime” it is really safe. All payments work though Skype and PayPal – they are both having huge authority to trust.

As for my web site, only one thing which becomes public is a member’s Skype name for contact. All other things, like address, birthday etc., are optional if user doesn’t want to share.