Succeeding in Telephone Interviews: A Guide

Introduction to Telephone Interviews

A telephone interview is an initial screening step in the recruitment process, and is often used by employers or recruiters to decide which candidates to progress to the next stage. Many candidates are uncertain of how to approach a telephone interview and are unaware of the strategies needed to excel and stand out from the competition. This guide provides helpful advice for succeeding in telephone interviews.

Preparing for a Telephone Interview

The most important part of a successful phone interview is to be well prepared. Spend some time researching the company, their products, services, and values. Familiarize yourself with the job description and think carefully about how your skills and experience make you an ideal candidate. A great way to prepare is to practice answering commonly asked questions out loud.

During the Telephone Interview

First impressions count, so be sure to answer the phone professionally with a smile. Speak clearly and remember to enunciate. Speak confidently and provide succinct answers; elaborate to engage the interviewer but don’t get side-tracked. Stay on topic and avoid jargon or overly technical language; aim to be friendly and demonstrate your enthusiasm. Most importantly, be sure to listen carefully and answer the questions asked.

Strategies for Success

Being organized and prepared is the key to success. Have all the documents you might need readily available, such as your resume and copies of relevant certificates or qualifications. Have a notepad handy to jot down key points and ask clarifying questions. To better engage with the interviewer, write down some questions you might have about the role, the company and the industry.

Types of Questions Asked in a Telephone Interview

Telephone interviews typically include a range of questions, such as those addressing why you applied for the role, your experience and skills, and how you plan to contribute to the position. You may also be asked some behavior-based questions to understand how you handle certain situations. Be prepared for a few curve ball questions to see how you respond to the unexpected.

Follow Up After a Telephone Interview

The follow up process should begin immediately after the interview. Within 24 hours, send a thank you note to the interviewer for their time. You should reiterate why you believe the job is a great fit and why you’d be the ideal choice. Reiterate your commitment to the process and summarise the key goals you’d have if you are chosen.

Conclusion

A successful telephone interview requires excellent preparation and an understanding of the right strategies for success. Be sure to do your research, practice answering questions, and follow-up promptly to leave a lasting impression. If done right, a telephone interview can make a great first impression and give you a better chance of progressing to the next stage.