Tips for Acing Phone Interviews

Schedule Ahead of Time

Preparing for a phone interview is just as important as a face-to-face one. Schedule ahead of time, giving yourself ample time to get familiar with the company and the interviewer. Writing down questions to ask the interviewer, such as what the company offers and their organizational structure, shows you are invested and prepared. Not only will this make you stand out but also gives you the opportunity to ask for clarification on anything you may not have understood.

Be Professional

Treat a phone interview just as you would an in-person one. Dress accordingly, using a professional tone and demeanor. When it comes to the interviewer, respect their time, avoid interrupting them, and answer their questions concisely. When they finish a question, patiently wait until they offer any further questions or clarifications.

Create a Professional Environment

Avoid conducting a phone interview from a place with too much background noise. Choose a comfortable, well-lit and quiet space where you can conduct without any unnecessary interference. Additionally, using a headset can help you give your full attention to the conversation and keep you from having to constantly adjust the phone in your hand.

Be Knowledgeable about the Company

Do extensive research on the company prior to your call. Being familiar with the company’s principles and values, as well as their accomplishments and goals, conveys your eagerness to be part of the organization. You should also be prepared to answer any questions which pertain to the job and be able to discuss your skills, knowledge and experience that are relevant to the position.

Keep Notes

One of the most important components of a phone interview is the ability to take notes. It is permissible to ask to take notes to ensure you properly understand the interviewer and won’t miss any truly important points. Having a notebook or laptop to jot down important information such as past experience, previous positions and future objectives discussed in the call serves as a great reference point for later.

Be Mindful of Your Body Language

Although you are not speaking to the interviewer face-to-face, be conscious of your language and tone. Speak slowly, projecting your voice in such a manner that it conveys confidence and energy. Sitting up or standing while speaking can also make for a more impactful presentation and leave a lasting impression with the interviewer.

Make a Lasting Impression

When wrapping up the phone interview, ask questions about the next steps in the process and thank them for their time. Request to stay in touch and reiterate your interest in the role one last time. Following up shortly after the call in the form of a thank you email further reflects your investment in the position and is a great way to stay top of mind with the recruiter.

Conclusion

Phone interviews can be difficult to navigate, especially if you don’t have much experience with them. However, there are some key practices to keep in mind that will set you up for success. Preparing ahead of time, creating a professional environment, being knowledgeable and confident in your answers, taking notes and making a lasting impression are all invaluable factors to consider. When done right, a phone interview can be the necessary stepping stone for gaining employment.