4 Ways To Ace Your Phone Interview
Phone interviews are commonly used by companies that want to screen applicants by talking to them before investing the time in an in-person visit. This makes the phone interview a hurdle you must clear before moving on in the hiring process.
Here are some of the best ways to approach a phone interview so you come through with flying colors:
Be prepared for phone interviews before they happen.
Make sure your voicemail message is professional and you keep your phone where you’ll be the one to answer it any time it rings.
If you take an unscheduled call and are asked to give a phone interview on the spot, it’s almost always better to decline. Instead of putting yourself through unnecessary stress, say, “Thanks for calling. I’m not able to give this the attention it deserves right now. When can I call you back?”
Do your homework (and take notes).
Prepare for a phone interview the same way you would an in-person interview. Research the company and the interviewer, and prepare questions to ask the interviewer. Your questions should seek the information you need to decide if you want to put forth the effort for an in-person interview. They should also demonstrate you have done your homework and are thinking about how you can be the best value to the company.
During the interview, use the notes you have made. One of the benefits of a phone interview is the opportunity to use your “cheat sheet” extensively – so take advantage of this fact!
Prepare to make a good impression with your voice.
In an in-person interview, you can use dress and body language to make a good impression. On the phone, however, all you have is your voice. To use it to your best advantage:
- Go somewhere quiet. Make sure the other person can hear you clearly.
- Drink as much water as you need, so you aren’t clearing your throat while you speak.
- Stand or sit up straight as you talk, and smile. Both of these have an impact on the clarity and warmth of your voice, which the interviewer will hear.
- Know when not to use your voice. Listen carefully to the employer, so you can find topics on which to build common ground: “That sounds familiar. We had a similar situation with my last employer, and here’s what I did….”
Follow through.
Just as you would after an in-person interview, send a thank-you note or follow-up email to the interviewer as soon as you’ve finished. Express your enthusiasm for the next step in the process: “I’m looking forward to speaking to you again.”
At Burnett’s Staffing, our recruiters can help you connect with some of the best available employers and prepare to give the best interview of your life – on the phone or in person. Contact us today to learn more about our top job opportunities in Arlington, TX and beyond!
