successful phone interviews
Phone Interviews
While you're in the job search, it's important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment's notice. Many companies start the interview process with a phone call to discuss the job opportunity with a prospective employee to determine if the candidate is a good fit, and to gauge his or her interest in the position. In many cases, your interview will be scheduled in advance by email or phone. In others, you may receive a surprise phone call asking if you're available to chat about a job.
You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk, so always answer the phone professionally, especially if the number is unfamiliar. You should also make sure that your outgoing voicemail message is professional.
How to Ace a Phone Interview
Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular in-person interview. You should feel comfortable and ready to discuss your background and skills confidently during a phone conversation. Have a copy of your résumé nearby, so that you can refer to it during the interview. Also have a copy of the job posting and a copy of your cover letter if you sent one.
If you have advance notice of the interview, make sure to review the job description and do research on the company, along with questions to ask. Take the time to match your qualifications to the job description so that you can speak to why you're a strong candidate for the position.
Get Ready for the Call
Before the call, confirm all the details, including the date, time, and who you will be talking to. Be sure you know whether the interviewer is calling you or if you need to make the call. Use a quiet, comfortable, and private space with no distractions so you can focus on the interview.
Follow-Up After the Interview
As the interview winds down, make sure to say thank you to the interviewer. Ask for the interviewer's email address, if you don't already have it. Send out an email thank you note immediately, thanking the interviewer and reiterating your interest in the job. Jot down what types of questions you were asked, how you responded, and any follow-up questions you may have if you have an opportunity for an in-person interview or a second round phone interview.
Dos and Don'ts During the Phone Interview
Don't chew gum, eat, or drink; however have a glass of water ready so you can take a quick sip if your mouth gets dry.
Smile, this will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice. It can also be helpful to stand during the interview, since this typically gives your voice more energy and enthusiasm.
Focus, listen, and enunciate. It's important to focus on the interview and that can be harder on the phone than in-person. Be sure to listen to the question, ask for clarification if you're not sure what the interviewer is asking, and speak slowly, carefully, and clearly when you respond. It's fine to take a few seconds to compose your thoughts before you answer.
Don't interrupt the interviewer.
Take your time. It's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
Use S.A.R (Situation, Action, Results) to stay focused on the questions and your responses.
Have questions to ask the interviewer ready. Be prepared to respond when the interviewer asks whether you have any questions. Review these questions to ask the interviewer and have a few ready in advance.
Remember that your goal is to set up a face-to-face interview. At the end of your conversation, after you thank the interviewer, ask if it would be possible to meet in person.