You have managed to get past the first hurdle, your resume has impressed the hiring manager enough for them to invite you to join them for an interview. But wait, this interview is going to be over the phone. How you prepare for a telephone interview is different than how you would prepare for an in-person one.
Phone interviews are increasingly becoming the first step in screening job candidates. Considering that employers may screen as many as 100 candidates during phone interviews, it’s important to know that the purpose of the phone call may be to eliminate you as a potential candidate in order to create a more manageable shortlist.
So how do you get past the phone call and make it to a face-to-face interview? The following ten tips will help you avoid common mistakes that can jeopardize your job search.
1. Preparation
You can never be too prepared for an interview. Who will be calling you? What is their position within the company? What do you know about the company and the job? Research the company website, news update, and press releases to better acquaint yourself with the company history and reputation.
2. Choose your time
Arrange for a specific time for the phone interview to allow you time to properly prepare. Taking an unscheduled call from Human Resources will leave you stumbling for words and less likely to effectively respond to the interviewer’s questions.
3. Use a landline (or make sure you will not lose service)
If your cell phone drops the call halfway through the conversation, you can probably say goodbye to the opportunity. If it’s not possible to use a landline, choose an area where your cell phone service is reliable. Also, ensure your cell phone is fully charged.
4. Silence is golden
Don’t worry if the caller pauses from time to time. They may be taking notes related to your conversation. Try not to talk just for the sake of simply hearing your own voice. Be patient and wait for the caller to resume the interview.
5. Location matters
Avoid anything that shouts “unprofessional.” That means blaring televisions, screaming kids, barking dogs or beeping microwaves. First impressions count so make sure that you will be in a quiet location where you will not be disturbed or distracted.
6. Watch your body language
Actions speak louder than words, so watch your posture, be alert, attentive and positive. Even if the interviewer can’t see you, your demeanour and attitude will reflect in your tone of voice, so keep a smile on your face.
7. Speak clearly
Your voice should reflect your smile and enthusiasm. Mumbling or a dull, listless voice will encourage your interviewer to toss your application into the ‘reject’ pile. You may think it’s not noticeable but a well-trained interviewer will immediately pick it up.
8. Prepare your questions
Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your interest in the job. Consider all aspects, not just salary, benefits and prospects, but how you can contribute to the growth of the company and benefit the team as a whole. If you are applying for a specialized industry such as finance or accounting, make sure you do your research so that you can speak knowledgeably with the finance recruiters.
9. Be professional
This is an interview, not a gossip session with a friend. Avoid being over-familiar, speak professionally and confidently, taking care to use “I can” instead of vague responses like “possibly” and “perhaps.”
10. Finish on a positive note
An abrupt end to the call doesn’t necessarily indicate lack of interest or that you didn’t make a good impression. It may simply indicate that the interviewer has to maintain a schedule and must interview the next candidate. Thank the caller for their time, reiterate your interest in the position and be glad that you made a positive impression.
