Introduction
In today’s job market, telephone interviews have become increasingly popular due to their overall cost-effectiveness.
Employers use it as an excellent tool to shortlist candidates while investing minimum resources.
In this article, we will discuss the benefits of phone interviews and how to prepare for them.
Why Employers Conduct a Phone/Zoom Interview
The phone interview is a great way for employers to quickly pre-screen candidates and eliminate those who are not likely to fit the job position.
Therefore, it is often conducted as a structured interview and customized to meet the job requirements.
More Details About the Phone Interview
A telephone interview is more relaxed than an in-person interview.
The interviewer will take this opportunity to form an opinion of the type of person you are.
They are looking to pick up on little things that you might be able to disguise during the more formal interview process.
Preparing for a Phone Interview
If you have a scheduled telephone interview, you need to be well prepared.
Here are some tips to help you prepare for the interview:
1.) Schedule and Treat it Like an In-person Interview
Although you are not in direct contact with the employer, the expectations are the same as if you were.
Telephone interviews are scheduled just like other interviews. You will be given a date and time, and you need to be well prepared.
2.) Research the Company
Before the telephone interview, you should research the company so that you are knowledgeable about all the important aspects of the company and can be prepared during the interview.
3.) Have the Necessary Items with You
Have your job ad, cover letter, and resume in front of you during the interview so that you can quickly refer to them. Have a calculator, pen, and paper handy so that you can take notes.
Also, have your list of questions prepared in advance, so you are ready when asked.
5 Tips for the Phone Interview
Use techniques to ensure you move to the next stage of the interview process.
During the phone interview, keep the following tips in mind:
1. Confirming Caller and Company – When the telephone call comes through, confirm who the caller is and the company.
2. Smile – Smile, as it comes through in the voice, and your interviewer will know that you are smiling.
3. Speak Clearly – You must make sure to speak clearly and concisely into the phone. Avoid common mistakes such as “ah”, “um”, or “er” at the start of your sentence. These poor speaking habits are more noticeable over the telephone than in person.
4. Pacing the Conversation with Rephrasing – Make sure you pace the conversation by using the technique of rephrasing or repeating the questions the interviewer asks. This shows the interviewer that you are listening and understanding what he or she has said.
5. Answering with Detail – Avoid answering questions with a simple yes or no. Answers should be clear, concise, and explicit.
Treat the opportunity in the same manner you would treat a personal interview.
Conclusion,
The telephone interview is likely to continue to grow in popularity as companies rely more and more on technology and less on personal contact.
Make the most of this first opportunity to get your foot in the door and treat it with the same importance you would treat an in-person interview.
By following the tips provided in this article, you can rock your phone interview and increase your chances of getting the job.