Often, one of the first steps in the interview process is a phone interview: a simple and brief way for a recruiter to get to know you, learn about your skills, and gauge your interest in a position. If you’re new to phone interviews, don’t be nervous — check out these top tips from our recruiters on how to find phone interview success, and jump-start your career today!
Tip #1: Confirm the Details
Make sure you know who will be calling you, what phone number they’ll be calling from, and what time to expect the call. This will not only help you be prepared to answer the phone with confidence, but will also calm some of your nerves about what to expect.
Tip #2: Set Yourself Up for Success
Be ready to ace your interview from the moment you answer the call. Here’s a few ways to do that:
- Read through the job description in advance so you clearly understand the position you’re interviewing for.
- Find a quiet, private space where you can focus, and turn off the TV or any background sounds that could distract you.
- Have a pen and paper at hand so you can easily take notes on what you hear.
- Set reminders for yourself and answer the call promptly so that you’re not caught off guard by an unexpected call.
Tip #3: Pretend You’re in Person
Even though it may feel unnatural, pretend your interviewer is sitting right in front of you. Speak clearly, use an upbeat tone of voice, and smile – even though you can’t be seen, your positive attitude and enthusiasm for the job could make all the difference!
Tip #4: Have Your Resources Handy
No need to impress with memorized facts and figures. Keep your resume in front of you, along with the job description for the position, so you can quickly reference them as a resource when answering the interviewer’s questions.
Tip #5: Be an Active Listener
It’s okay to take a moment to collect your thoughts, but make sure your caller knows that you’re engaged in the interview. Respond promptly when you’re asked a question, and ask follow-up questions about the position and the interview process if you’re given a chance to do so.
Tip #6: Take It Seriously!
At the end of the day, the best thing you can do is to remember that an interview over the phone is still an interview. While it may feel like you’re just catching up with a friend, a phone interview is your opportunity to set yourself apart as professional and well-spoken and make a great first impression – or in some cases, seal the deal!
