17 Jun How to Conquer a Telephone Job Interview
No matter if you live out of town or a company is trying to limit their staff’s exposure to the public, you may be asked to complete a telephone interview as you search for a new job. Unfortunately, telephone interviews can be nerve-wracking. You must make an impression on the interviewer and often, you have little time and are limited in how you can accomplish this task. Plus, small verbal mistakes, such as talking too fast, mumbling, or excessive rambling can drastically hurt your chances of landing the position.
To ensure your telephone job interview is a success, here are a few tips.
Brush Up on Your Phone Etiquette
With the popularity of text messaging and social media, speaking on the telephone is rare. Many individuals do not know how to properly answer the telephone and what type of behavior is needed to create a great phone call. Prior to your telephone job interview, brush up on your phone etiquette. Pay attention to how you answer the phone and make sure to address yourself so the interviewer knows they are talking to you. Avoid cutting off the interviewer as they are speaking and listen closely to the individual on the other end of the phone.
Pay Attention to Your Environment
One of the benefits of a telephone interview is you can answer the call from any location. However, you must make sure it is in a quiet area where the interviewer can easily hear you. It is also important it is in a space where there are a few distractions so you can focus on the individual at the end of the phone line. Additionally, if you will be using a cell phone, make sure you are in a location that receives excellent service.
Prepare Similar to an In-Person Interview
Similar to an in-person interview, do your research before the phone interview. Learn all you can about the company before the phone call and have several questions ready that you wish to ask. It is also ideal to practice common interview questions and have a list of your strengths, weaknesses, and qualifications ready. During the interview, have a pencil and a piece of paper ready to write down notes, questions, and important tidbits of information.
Pay Attention to Your Body Language
Just because the interviewer does not see you, it doesn’t mean you can’t pay attention to your body language. For example, during the interview, you want to avoid putting anything near your mouth and do not eat, drink, or chew gum. Also, do not walk around or move too much as you talk.
Make sure to smile during your interview and pay attention to your facial features. This is not only good practice for in-person interviews but it will help you project a happy and friendly tone on the phone.
No matter the reason for a telephone job interview, if you are prepared, there is no need to worry. You can conquer this interview and be one step closer to your dream job.
