Phone interviews are becoming increasingly popular as a means of narrowing
down candidates for a more traditional face to face interview. In
the ultra competitive society we now live, a job advertisement can
attract hundreds of resumes from candidates with similar set of skills
and backgrounds. The recruitment process is all about finding the
one perfect candidate among the basket full of candidates. The phone
interview has become a popular, flexible, inexpensive and speedy way
of finding that one person.
Preparing for a PHONE INTERVIEW
Before you begin your phone interview make sure that you are confident
in your understanding of the position you are applying for and the
company you are applying with. Do extra homework on the company's
history and research recent company news. Preparation is the key and
will make a great impression on your interviewers.
Prepare your Interview location. Make sure you're in a comfortable
place with no distractions. Keep your resume in clear view, have a
pen and pad to take notes and a glass of water sitting close by. Minimise
any outside distractions that could potentially take your mind off
the interview (HOT TIP: Disable call waiting on your phone). Dress
the part so you feel and sound professional. The more professional
you feel the more professional you will come across on the telephone.
Most importantly - Practice Interviewing. Rehearse and Practice. There
are many ways to help you prepare for the telephone interview. Have
a friend/ family member conduct an interview. Ideally, rehearse with
someone from the same industry. The best way to hear how you sound
is to tape yourself. Remember the more preparation you put into the
interview the better prepared you will be.
Preparation is the key! Write down answers to questions you believe
are going to be asked. Have questions ready to go so when the interviewer
says "Do you have any questions to ask us" you're ready
and prepared.
What to do during the phone interview:
- Remember to Smile. Experts say that smiling puts you in a
better state of mind and will project a positive image to the listener
- Speak in a steady voice. Don't rush what you're trying to
say. Ensure that you sound enthusiastic and passionate.
- Don't forget to breathe. It will help you stay calm and sound
more relaxed.
- LISTEN - Answer the questions which are being asked. Do not
make the mistake of telling the interviewer what you want to tell
them. Give them the answers to their questions.
- Keep a glass of water handy - Nothing is worse than having
a dry mouth
- Address the interviewer in the appropriate way. Do not shorten
people's name. They are your potential employer not your "mate"
- Take your time - Don't rush the interview. This is your time
to shine. If your feeling nervous take a moment or two to collect
your thoughts
- "Cheat Notes" Prepare beforehand with notes to
help drive you through the interview. If the interview is going to
be technical than have notes ready to prompt yourself if needed
- Don't forget to ask questions.
What NOT to do during the interview:
- Don't eat, drink, chew gum
- DO NOT SMOKE
- Don't interrupt the interviewer.
- Don't answer with just a "yes" and "no"- elaborate
your answers, provide examples if applicable
- Don't be too Casual/informal
- Long winded answers to questions
Conclusion:
The only way to master a phone interview is to practice, be professional,
and show your passion for the job role. Remember you have made the
phone interview stage so don't blow your interview by not being ready.
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