10 Ways to Shine in That Phone Interview

Imagine a job interview where you don’t have to worry about how firm your handshake is, there’s no rushing to get there on time and you can attend in your bathrobe and slippers. A telephone interview affords these luxuries, but it may also come with its own set of challenges. Consider these 10 tips to make sure you shine during your telephone interview.

1. Confirm the Appointment

Call the potential employer the day before your scheduled interview. Confirm the scheduled start time and who’s calling who.

2. Prepare Your Voice

If your telephone interview is scheduled for early morning, wake up a few hours early so you don’t sound groggy. Exercise the nervous energy out of your voice by singing.

3. Make a Cheat Sheet

Prepare a cheat sheet prior to your telephone interview so you have all the information you need in one easy-access location. In addition to the facts from your resume, jot down your strengths, achievements, significant skills and questions you have for the interviewer.

4. Consider Location

Choose a quiet spot to take the phone call. Hire a sitter for children or pets, and lock the door to avoid interruptions.

5. Arrange Your Space

If possible, use a landline phone for your interview. Otherwise, make sure your cellphone is sufficiently charged and that reception is reliable. Keep a pen or pencil and notepad nearby to jot down questions, thoughts or notes.

6. Be Professional

Don’t allow the telephone interview to turn into an informal chat. Keep your communications friendly yet professional to make a good first impression.

7. Use Body Language

Sit up straight in your chair so you feel more energetic. Consider standing for the interview to boost your confidence, as this can show in your voice and responses.

8. Smile

Even though the interviewers can’t see you, they can still hear your smile. Smiling as you talk makes you sound more friendly and personable. Consider keeping a mirror in front of your face during the telephone interview so you can monitor your expressions.

9. Provide Concise Responses

Don’t allow your answers to turn into long, drawn-out ramblings, and don’t feel obligated to fill silence. Provide brief, well-thought-out responses, and allow the interviewer to ask any follow-up questions that are necessary.

10. Follow Up

Before the interview concludes, inquire about the next step in the process. If a few weeks go by without an update, call the organization to let the hiring manager know you’re still interested in the position.

While a telephone interview allows you to respond to common interview questions from a comfortable environment, it serves a beneficial purpose for the potential employer. This practice allows the hiring organization to screen many candidates within a short time frame, getting a feel for personalities and weeding out those who don’t suit the company’s needs. Follow these 10 tips to make sure you shine during your telephone interview and move on to the next round.

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