If you are searching for a job, you should prepare to have a phone interview because many include it in their recruitment process. In this article, you will learn some tips that will help you get the job of your dreams. Let’s start!
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What is a phone interview?
A phone interview is a job interview that takes place over the phone. It is a common way to screen candidates for a job posting, and it can be just as important as an in-person interview. Phone interviews allow employers to evaluate candidates’ communication skills and their ability to think on their feet. They also allow employers to determine whether candidates’ skills would fit the position.
Phone interviews can happen at any stage of the interview process. Sometimes, employers use them to screen candidates before inviting them for an in-person interview. Other times, they use it to finalize a decision after a series of in-person interviews. The format of a phone interview is usually the same as an in-person interview, with the interviewer asking questions and the candidate responding. However, a phone interview can be more challenging than a face-to-face interview because you can’t see the interviewer’s facial expressions or body language.
Ten tips for a phone interview
There are many tips we can give you to help you prepare for and ace a phone interview, but here are our top ten:
1. Do your research on the company and the position you applied for before the phone interview
By doing your research on the company and having a good understanding of the job description, you can go into your interview with a better understanding of what the company is looking for and what you can bring to the table. Additionally, it shows that you are interested in the company and have put in the effort to learn more about it. This will set you apart from other candidates who may not have done their research.
For example, if you are interviewing for a position in marketing, you might research the company’s recent marketing campaigns. How did the public receive those campaigns? This would give you some ideas on what the company needs from a candidate and how you could potentially help them to improve their marketing efforts. Additionally, it would show that you are proactive and have an interest in helping the company grow.
2. Review your resume and be prepared to talk about any of your experiences in detail
Make sure you can explain why you find the position interesting and what skills you have that would make you perfect for that position. You should also be prepared to answer questions about your work history, education, and why you left your last job.
Try to find an overlap between the job description and your skills and experiences. For example, if the job description states you require excellent communication skills, you might want to talk about a time when you successfully communicated with a difficult client. This would show that you have communicative skills and that you are capable of using them in a work setting.
3. Have a quiet, distraction-free environment for your phone interview
The idea is that you can focus on the conversation and be able to hear the interviewer clearly. This means no distractions from things like TV, children, pets, or other people in your home. Additionally, you want to make sure you are in a place with good cell phone reception so that there are no issues with connection.
4. Make a list of questions to ask the interviewer – don’t just rely on what they ask you
The best way to prepare for a phone interview is to anticipate the questions that the interviewer will ask. To do this, review the job listing and make a list of the skills and experience required for the position. Then, develop answers to common questions that demonstrate that you possess those skills and experience.
In addition to preparing for anticipated questions, it’s also important to prepare yourself for possible curveballs. The interviewer may ask about something that wasn’t mentioned in the job listing or on your resume. Make sure you have a few stories or examples that illustrate how you’ve used your skills and experience in past jobs.
Finally, be sure to practice answering questions aloud so that you sound confident and polished when you speak on the phone. The more prepared you are for your phone interview, the better your chances of landing the job.
5. Have a strong introduction and conclusion ready
A good introduction and conclusion will make a strong impression on the interviewer and leave them with a positive opinion of you.
When you introduce yourself, be sure to state your name slowly and clearly. You may also want to mention where you saw the job listing or how you heard about the company. This will help the interviewer put a face to a name and remember you when they are making their decision. Mention why you find the position interesting and what qualifications you have that make you a good fit for the job.
At the end of the phone interview, be sure to thank the interviewer for their time and express your interest in the position. This will help you leave on a positive note and increase your chances of getting the job.
6. Use positive words
When you’re on the phone for a job interview, it’s crucial to sound upbeat. After all, the interviewer can’t see you, so they rely on your voice to get a sense of your personality.
Some ways to do this are by using adjectives to describe yourself, speaking positively about your experiences, and being assertive. For example, you could say “I am a hard worker who is motivated and takes direction well.” Or “I have a lot of experience in customer service and I thrive in a fast-paced environment.” Use phrases like “I’m excited about this opportunity” or “I really appreciate you considering me for this role.”
Being positive and upbeat will show the interviewer that you are confident and excited about the opportunity.
7. Speak clearly and at a moderate volume
When you are doing a phone interview, it is important that you speak clearly and at a moderate volume. This will ensure that the interviewer can hear you and that you will be able to understand them. Make sure you are in a quiet place with no distractions and speak into the phone’s microphone.
Some tips for speaking clearly during a phone interview include: enunciating your words properly, speaking slowly and clearly, and avoiding filler words such as “um” and “uh”. If you get nervous during the interview, take a deep breath and relax. The best way to sound confident on the phone is to be calm and collected.
8. Take (mental) notes during the interview so that you can refer back to them later
There are a few things to remember when taking (mental) notes during a phone interview. Suppose you are doing it on paper. First, ensure that you have a good pen and paper or a laptop with an active internet connection to type your notes quickly. You’ll also want to be in a quiet spot where you can focus on the conversation.
When taking notes, it’s important to capture the basics: who you’re talking to, what the topic of conversation is, and any key points that you discuss. You can also use shorthand notation for certain terms or ideas to make taking notes easier.
For example, if your interviewer asks you about your experience with a specific software program, you might write “SAP” next to a note about that experience rather than writing out the full name of the program. This will help you keep track of the conversation more easily and avoid having to stop and write out long phrases or sentences.
If possible, try to take notes as the conversation is happening. This will help you better remember what was said. It will also show the interviewer that you’re taking the conversation seriously and are interested in the role. However, if you find yourself getting lost or confused while trying to take notes, don’t worry. Stop taking notes and focus on the conversation; just do your best and go back over your notes later.
9. Ask questions
At the end of the phone interview, you will usually be allowed to ask questions. This is your chance to learn more about the job and the company and to show your interest in the role. Questions also make you seem more engaged in the conversation and can give you an opportunity to further sell yourself as a candidate.
Some good questions to ask during a phone interview include:
- Can you tell me more about the day-to-day responsibilities of the job?
- What are the company’s values and culture like?
- What would you say are the most important qualities for success in this role?
- Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?
10. Follow up with a thank-you email shortly thereafter
If you’re like me, you’re probably wondering how to follow up after a phone interview. Phone interviews are a great way to screen candidates and save time, but what’s the best way to follow up?
First, send a thank-you email within 24 hours of the interview. Thank them for their time, and reiterate your interest in the position. You can also mention something from the conversation that you found interesting.
Next, keep in touch. If you have any questions about the position or the company, don’t hesitate to ask the hiring manager or recruiter. Stay upbeat, and don’t forget to express your gratitude once again.
Typical telephone interview questions
The interviewer typically begins by asking about your current or most recent job. They will then ask a variety of questions about your experience and skills. Common telephone interview questions include:
What are your strengths?
When answering questions about your strengths, be specific and give examples of times when you have exhibited those strengths. For example, if you say you are a hard worker, talk about a time when you had to work overtime or take on a difficult project.
What are your weaknesses?
When answering questions about your weaknesses, try to focus on weaknesses that are not essential to the job you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a position that requires strong communication skills, don’t list poor communication as a weakness.
What did you like about the job?
When answering questions about what you liked about the job, be sure to mention specific things that you liked, such as the company’s culture, the team you would be working with, the commute, etc.
What are your professional goals?
When answering questions about your professional goals, be sure to focus on short-term and long-term goals. For example, if your goal is to become a manager within five years, say so. If your goal is to work for the company for a long time, say so.
Why are you interested in this position?
When answering questions about why you are interested in this position, be sure to mention the specific qualities that make this position appealing to you. For example, if you are interested in the position because it will allow you to use your creativity, say so.
What can you bring to the company?
When answering questions about what you can bring to the company, be sure to mention your skills and experience that are relevant to the job you are applying for.
How would you deal with a difficult customer or situation?
When answering questions about how you would deal with a difficult customer or situation, think of an example where you dealt with something similar in the past. For example, if you were asked how you would deal with a customer who was angry and yelling, talk about a time when you had to deal with a difficult customer.
Some of these questions may be difficult to answer without knowing more about the job or company. However, try to provide the best answer you can, and be sure to sell yourself and your skills.
A word from SublimePeople
Preparation is key for any job interview, and that includes phone interviews. By preparing for common telephone interview questions, you can increase your chances of landing the job. In addition to preparing answers to common questions, be sure to research the company and position you are applying for. Stay upbeat and positive throughout the conversation, and express your gratitude once again when it’s over.
Have you ever had a phone interview? We would love to hear about your experience!
