Tips for a Successful Telephone Interview

Prepare in Advance

Research the company, its products, and values before you go on the telephone interview. Knowing the company and relevant industry information can help you answer even the toughest of questions. It is also important to practice with a friend or family member prior to the phone call. Make sure you know what you want to convey and what questions you want to ask the interviewer.

Dress Appropriately

Even though you may be interviewing via phone, it's important to dress professionally. Having an outfit ready to go will give you an extra boost of confidence. Make sure your clothing is neat and pressed, and that any accessories (such as jewelry, ties, etc.) are appropriate for the type of workplace.

Have the Necessary Materials Ready

Before the call, make sure you have access to all the materials you might need: a pen and paper, your resume, a copy of the job description, a calculator, and anything else that might provide assistance. Also make sure you have a copy of the company's website and contact information.

Find a Quiet Place to Take the Call

Make sure your area for the phone interview is quiet and free of distractions. Even if you don't have a home office, it's important to create an environment that is well-suited for an interview. Find a spot that has good lighting and minimal background noise.

Have the Right Tools

Have your phone (landline or mobile) on hand. If the interviewer provides a call-in number, make sure you're prepared to dial it if necessary. Also, make sure you have a good headset (with a microphone) so that you can hear the interviewer clearly.

Speak Clearly and Confidently

Once the call starts, make sure your responses are clear and concise. Make sure you don't speak too quickly or too slowly. Listen to the interviewer's questions carefully, and answer in complete sentences. Speak in a natural tone, but emphasize the important points.

Be Mindful of Interruptions

Interruptions are inevitable; however, make sure you're mindful of when they do occur. If you're interrupted by a call or a knock at the door, make sure you apologize and return to the conversation promptly. If possible, give the interviewer your assurance that the interruption won't happen again.

Ask Questions About the Position

Asking questions shows that you're prepared and interested in the position. Be sure to ask any questions that you have about the job, the company, or the industry so that you can have a better understanding of the role and make a more informed decision.

Follow Up After the Interview

Once you've finished the interview, send a thank-you note to the interviewer and follow up with your recruiter. This will show employers that you're serious about the position and demonstrate your enthusiasm for the role.