If you're only looking for an alternative in case of unforeseen Skype outages, you can use Slack or Google Hangouts. The latter has a video conference option, similar to Skype for Business.
I am looking for a linux application similar to Skype. My intention is to set up in company employees laptops, so that they can communicate with others while working at home. As per company policies, all the laptops are linux. I know the benefits of Skype for businesses and we are already using them. But recently, a Skype outage caused a small communication breakdown and thus I am looking for an alternative, in case of an emergency. I hope someone could help me.