Introduction
Have you ever been asked to take a phone interview? If so, you might have been caught off guard by the idea.
If not, it is something you should consider as a possibility and prepare for it now.
This article guides you on the basic things to keep in mind before, during, and after a phone interview. Get 5 preparation tips and 11 top phone interview tips to help you get a second interview.
The Importance of a Phone/ZOOM Interview
This interview method is used as a screening process, so it is very important you make a good impression in order to be selected for the next step: The in-person interview.
In addition, if you are applying for administrative jobs, sales jobs, or customer service jobs, this is an excellent way for an employer to determine the level of your telephone effectiveness.
Preparing for the Phone Interview
Prepare – It’s no surprise that preparation is the key to a successful interview whether it is on the phone or in-person.
How should you prepare differently for a phone interview? Here’s how you can prepare differently:
- Have this information arranged and organized in front of you!
- Practice an interview with a friend or family member over the phone and solicit feedback on your performance.
1. Research the Employer
Start by visiting the employer’s website and reading about them.
You can also search the internet to learn more about the company, what they do, and how they are different from their competition.
The more you know about the company, the better you will do in your phone interview.
2. Review the Job Description
Take time to go through the job description one line at a time. Think about how your skills and experience apply to each line. Even if you’re not a perfect fit, think about how you will answer questions relating to the job description.
3. Anticipate Interview Questions
Think about the questions the interviewer is likely to ask and write down your answers.
Be prepared to answer questions about why you are considering leaving your current position, your strengths and weaknesses, and your main experiences.
4. Manage Salary Expectations
Think about the way you will ask questions about salary history, so you are prepared when the question comes up.
You should never bring up salary or benefits but be prepared to answer if the potential employer brings up this subject.
5. Prepare Your Own Questions
Come up with a few questions of your own, so you are prepared when the interviewer asks if you have any questions.
Good questions include clarification questions about your role, open-ended questions relating to office culture, and further steps in the employer’s timeline for deciding.
11 Tips for a Successful Phone Interview
Preparing for a phone interview is just as important as preparing for an in-person interview.
Here are eleven tips to help you ace your upcoming phone interview:
1. Choose the Right Time and Venue – It is important to choose a time that is mutually comfortable for both parties.
Moreover, ensure that you have a quiet and uninterrupted space to attend the call, free from any background noises.
2. Prepare Paperwork in Advance
Preparing in advance with the points you want to raise, your resume, and references can be beneficial.
It allows you to answer any questions promptly and professionally.
3. Projecting a Good Attitude
Project a Good Attitude – Use an enthusiastic voice to sound energetic, interested, and ready to go! Smile as you talk.
Don’t rush through your answers.
Attempt to create a relationship over the phone so the interviewer will desire to meet you in person.
4. Listening Skills
Listen – Just because you are in a telephone interview doesn’t mean you should expect to talk more than you would face-to-face.
It is very important in any kind of interview to listen and only speak when appropriate without interruption. You have a good opportunity in a phone interview to take notes.
Record what the interviewer tells you and your responses as well.
5. Avoid Distractions
During a phone interview, it is essential to eliminate any surrounding noises such as television, microwave, or washing machine sounds that may disrupt the conversation.
Any interruptions may hamper your chances of getting the job.
6. Speak Clearly and Use Good Grammar
Since the interviewer cannot see you, it is crucial to speak clearly and with good grammar.
This will show that you are professional and serious about the job opportunity.
7. Avoid Speaking to Other People During the Call
Interrupting a job interview call to talk to someone else is not only unprofessional but also disrespectful.
It can leave a negative impression on the interviewer and ruin your chances of being employed.
8. Stay Positive and Smile
Although it is a phone interview, a positive manner and a smile can be sensed over the phone.
Your positive attitude can make a significant impact on the interviewer, and they will appreciate your enthusiasm.
9. Being Professional
Be Professional – Just as it is important to be professional when meeting face-to-face, this also applies to phone interviews. Take care of any possible noise problems in advance. Your audible behavior will be noticed by the interviewer. Be ready to speak and practice speaking in advance.
10. Show Appreciation – Effective Thanking
Always thank the interviewer after an interview.
Make sure to thank the interviewer at the end of your interview and ask for their email address, so you can send a thank-you note.
Follow-up is essential, as it keeps you and your resume in the forefront.
11. Follow-Up
Follow up in writing as you would with any interview – Follow up with a thank-you note one or two days later.
Thanking the interviewer for the opportunity and offering to answer any questions they might have or to review information.
This shows you are still interested in the position and can help set you apart from other candidates.
Conclusion,
By keeping in mind these phone interview etiquette tips, you can make a positive and lasting impression on your interviewer.
It is essential to show your professionalism and dedication to the job opportunity to increase your chances of success.
Your positive attitude can make a significant impact on the interviewer, and they will appreciate your enthusiasm.