Finding a Job Series – Phone Interviews

Often times during the interview process for a job, the employer will request that the applicant be given a phone interview prior to an interview face-to-face. If you as an applicant are asked for a phone interview, it is important to prepare for it in the same way you would get ready for the face-to-face. Thus, before you take the interview, there are a number of things you can do to prepare, such as researching the company, creating a list of responses to typical interview questions as well as a list of possible questions to ask the employer. Also, be sure to have all the relevant info of the interview such as the date and time, and the person you will be interviewed by. Below are a few more helpful tips to practice during and after your phone interview.

Practice proper etiquette. One aspect of the phone interview is to make sure you are practicing the proper etiquette. So, for example, if you will be around friends, family, roommates, etc. when the call comes in, let everybody around you know in advance that you will be having a phone interview at such and such a time in order to ensure your privacy is respected. When the call comes in, be sure to answer by stating your name in a positive, upbeat manner. This will signal to the caller that they have contacted the correct person. Also during your interview, always refer to the person by the title Mr. or Ms. so and so.You may use their first name only if they tell you to. Furthermore, never interrupt the interviewer as they are speaking. Rather, be sure to write down ideas or questions, and when you get your chance to speak, you can then state any ideas or questions you may have. Additionally, should you find yourself at a loss for words at any moment in the interview, it’s okay to take a few beats of silence. But don’t wait too long. Dead air could end the interview before it even gets started.