If you’ve searched for a job within the last few years, you’ve likely been asked to do a phone interview. No longer just for out-of-town applicants, phone interviews often act as a prequalification process for recruiters to see if you are a viable candidate they should pursue further. Sounds easy-breezy, right? Lying on your couch, staring at the ceiling while you informally chitchat with a recruiter? False. The truth is, phone interviews should be taken quite seriously – especially if you are serious about getting the job.
To help you get ready for a phone interview – whether now or in a future job search – we’ve put together some simple tips for mastering the call.
Preparing for the call
Just as if you were doing an in-person interview, preparation is key. This means doing research about the company itself and prepping answers for commonly asked interview questions, as well as preparing questions to ask the interviewer. The best part? You can create a cheat sheet! Write it all down and have this lifesaver handy during your call – just be sure you use it as a prompt for your talking points rather than reading it like a script. It’s also a good idea to have your resume in front of you, as well as any other documentation you may need to reference during the call. Some recruiters may even direct you to a website during the call so it may be a good idea to be in front of a computer as well.
When setting up the interview, it is important to ensure that you are available to take the call at the scheduled time. If the recruiter suggests a time that doesn’t work for you, don’t be afraid to speak up and choose a time that will allow you to be at home or in a quiet space without distractions. Also be sure to answer the call promptly – don’t let it go to voicemail. Unfortunately, a missed call can likely mean a missed opportunity for you.
In the event that the recruiter calls and wants to do an on-the-spot phone interview and it’s not a good time for you (i.e. you’re at the grocery store, picking your children up from school, etc.), you may apologetically explain your situation and suggest setting up a different time. If the interviewer is hesitant to reschedule, you may have to go for it and try your best!
Taking the call
As with any professional call, it is always a good idea to answer the phone with your name (i.e. “Hello, this is John Smith”) to prevent the recruiter from having to ask for you and to get the conversation flowing immediately. It might sound silly but smiling while talking will also transmit enthusiasm and help to portray a friendly demeanor. When you are not speaking, it is courteous to put your phone on mute to prevent the recruiter from hearing background noise on your end while they are speaking. Just be sure to unmute yourself before speaking again!
Of course, it is vital that you are honest during the call. Interviewing over the phone can create a false sense of security but chances are that if you progress to an in-person interview – and then on to employment – the truth will likely come to light. Start off with your potential employer on the right foot and be truthful in your dialogue. As with any interview, be sure to finish the call by asking what the next steps may be and when you can expect to hear back. Be sure to have pen and paper handy in case you need to jot anything down!
Following the call
Lastly, it is always a good idea to follow an interview, whether on the phone or in-person, with a thank you note. This is not only a way to display your interest and professionalism but also a second chance to reiterate your strengths and the value you could provide the company. If you do not already have a mailing address or email address for your interviewer, be sure to ask for their contact information at the end of your interview so you know where to send your thank you letter/email.
It’s okay to be nervous – just do your best and remember that the immediate goal of the phone interview is to get an in-person interview. Just think of the phone interview as a practice run and you’ll be well on your way mastering the rest of the interview process!
Hi Kacie,
Great article but i would like to add the following tips for potential readers.
*Prepare yourself before the call.
*Have a copy of your resume and the job description in front of you.
*Create a list of your strengths you want to highlight during the interview.
*The majority of potential employers also asks what are your weaknesses, so be prepared to answer without hesitation.
*Speak clearly and smile while you talk.
*Be careful of background noises, such as a pen tapping on the desk or a radio in the next room.
*Don’t eat, drink, suck on candy or chew gum.
Although these tips are geared toward phone interviews, they can also be applied to other forms of interviews. Practice, practice and practice some more. Ask a friend to help you with mock interviews on the phone and to critique you honestly.
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