The phone interview has become a standard way of contacting job candidates before a formal face-to-face interview.  Because the phone interview is a new concept, many job candidates do not know or understand how to interact.  Here are a few tips you will need to nail that phone interview:

  • Never do a phone interview when they first call. Always set up a time to do the interview, even if it is an hour later.  This will give you the time you need to prepare and research the company.
  • Take the time to research the company before your phone interview. Similar to your face-to-face interview, you will have the opportunity to ask questions and you will want to construct your answers to fit in with what they are looking for.  This will show preparation to the hiring manager and that you respect their time.
  • Make sure that you are ready at the specified time for the call. Remove all distractions from the room, and answer the call immediately.
  • Since you have already done your research, make sure that you have a list of the questions you want to ask written in front of you. Also, have a copy of your resume and/or cover letter that you sent.  When you are prepared, you will be able to answer questions effectively and not waste the interviewer’s time.
  • Understand the job you are applying for. If you had not received the job description, ask for it to be sent to you when you schedule the interview.  Review the description in detail and make notes of how your skills will translate and help achieve what they are looking for.

Your phone interview is just as important, if not more important than your face-to-face interview.  Treat it as if it is the same.  Prepare the same way you would prepare for an in-person interview.  Only when you are prepared, will you be invited to move on to the next step in the hiring process.

Copyright: gajus / 123RF Stock Photo