NAIL YOUR PHONE INTERVIEW

Employers use telephone interviews as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as a way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates.

Be Prepared to Interview

Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical interview questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.

• Keep your resume in clear view so it’s at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
• Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
• Have a pen and paper handy for note-taking.
• Turn call-waiting off so your call isn’t interrupted.
• If the time isn’t convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.
• Clear the room – evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.
• Unless you’re sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

Practice Interviewing

Talking on the phone isn’t as easy as it seems, so it is helpful to practice.

• Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so you can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work.
• Listen to your recording for “ums” and “uhs” and “okays.” Practice reducing them from your conversational speech.
• Rehearse answers to typical questions you’ll be asked.

During the Phone Interview

• Don’t chew gum or eat.
• Keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
• Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
• Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
• Use the person’s title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
• Don’t interrupt the interviewer.
• Take your time – it’s perfectly acceptable to take a moment to collect your thoughts.
• Give short answers.

After the Interview

• Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer ask if it would be possible to meet in person.
• Take notes about what you were asked and how you answered.
• Remember to say “thank you.” Follow with a thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job.