ChickSpeak

Phone interviews are becoming more and more popular as a way of screening job candidates before actual in-person interviews are conducted. They are intended to minimize both the time and expenses involved in interviewing candidates who may live out of town or who have trouble coming in to the office due to illness and other personal reasons. More often, however, phone interviews are used to quickly eliminate applicants who are clearly not cut out for the job.

An employer looking for a sales assistant will not be impressed, if the interviewee keeps stuttering and clearing his throat on the phone. Because most managers, supervisors, editors, and HR representatives have a very limited amount of time each day to complete their work, phone interviews can greatly alleviate the energy and resources it takes to find the right person for a job.  

Many people may feel uncomfortable on the phone. Some may be inclined to talk too much. Others may wait too long to answer questions, which may result in awkward lulls on the phone. During phone interviews, it is impossible for the employer to see how you are dressed, what you look like, where you are located, or what else you are doing at the same time. The following guidelines are tips on how to prepare for a phone interview and what kinds of questions you should expect.  

Do’s 

Do find a quiet place to conduct the phone interview. Inform anyone living with you that you have a phone interview scheduled for so-and-so a time. Tell them that it may take anywhere from fifteen minutes to an hour and not to disturb you so long as you are on the phone. Sit down at a desk in your office or bedroom and wait for your employer to call you.

Do keep your résumé  and other items in front of you, where you can easily access them. Print out a copy of your résumé. Go online and keep the company’s website on your front page. Prepare for a phone interview in much the same way as you would an in-person interview. Know what you are going to discuss. Be ready for any and all curveball questions that may come your way.

Do try to refrain from talking too much, or talking too little. As soon as you think you have appropriately answered your employer’s question, stop. This is a difficult rule to follow. Most people may feel like they have an obligation to fill up a lull in a conversation. However, let your employer do the talking. Answer his or her questions in the most concise and direct way possible. Indicate, using your tone, when you have finished your response.

Do smile during a phone interview, even though your employer cannot physically see you. When you smile, your voice will naturally sound more energetic and upbeat. This will make your employer feel more at ease, and he or she will be more inclined to think that you are really a top candidate for the job in question.

Do dress up for a phone interview. It is never a good idea to crawl out of bed in your pajamas just as your employer is calling. If you dress up in office attire, your body will automatically adjust to the right state of mind. Treat a phone interview with a professional and not a casual or laidback attitude.

Do expect to hear at least a few of the routine interview questions. Questions about your résumé, work experience, and time commitment are all to be expected. Other typical inquiries like why you want the job, what you plan on changing and doing, how or why you feel qualified for the position should be anticipated. Know how to highlight your strengths, while refraining from coming across as arrogant or pompous.

Do follow up on a phone interview the same way as you would an in-person interview. Send a quick e-mail highlighting the points you made on the phone. Emphasize your strengths, without sounding too desperate, and always thank your employer for taking the time to seriously consider you as an applicant.

Don’ts

Don’t try to multi-task during a phone interview. It’s okay to have a cup of coffee or tea at your side, but don’t be tempted to go on Facebook, answer any text messages, or check your e-mail. Focus all your energy and attention on the questions that your employer is asking you. Make sure to pause and think before blurting out an answer!

Don’t agree to do the interview at the last minute. Make sure you have a quiet and relaxed place where you can speak clearly without background noise or distraction.

Don’t talk to the employer like you would to anyone you chat with on the phone. Make sure to remind yourself to slow down, breathe and focus on what the person is asking you. This is your opportunity to shine -even if they can’t see what a fabulous chick you are! 

Katherine J. Chen is currently a sophomore at Princeton University majoring in English with a certificate in Creative Writing. She has had many a phone interview in the past, and happens to love them more than in-person meetings.