Ace your phone interview with this guide and seven interview tips. Get career advice from ResumeNerd to impress any hiring manager and get the job you want.
Seven Phone Interview Tips to Get the Job of Your Dreams
The Best Phone Interview Tips For Every New Job
Congratulations! Your resume impressed the hiring manager, and you have been invited for a job interview. Sometimes this means an in-person interview, but now more often than not, you might be invited to an interview held over the phone. The phone interview process is often used for initial discussions in the hiring process.
Is a Phone Interview Easier Than Face-to-Face?
Sometimes job seekers make the mistake of considering a phone interview as less formal than an in-person interview. The difference from an in-person interview is that the hiring manager won't be able to see your body language or facial expressions. It's important to prepare for the interview well. Not only do you want to eliminate unnecessary expressions such as “umm” and “ahh,” but also you want to remember to mention all the important points that are most likely to get you hired. Use the seven phone interview tips below to wow recruiters!
Seven Tips to Prepare for a Phone Interview
Occasionally hiring managers will make a surprise call without warning. But more often than not, your interview will be at a scheduled time. When preparing for your interview:
1. Double-check date and time of the scheduled call.
Quite often, candidates make the mistake of not checking the time zone, which might mean your call is earlier than you thought.
2. Plan where you will be during the call.
Find a quiet place and remove all distractions. Check that there won’t be much background noise, such as construction or traffic sounds. Let your family know that they should not disturb you during this time.
3. Prepare the technology you will need during the call.
If the call will take place on Skype, Zoom, or WhatsApp, then make sure your internet connection is stable. Charge your cell phone battery, and if you intend to use wireless headphones, make sure to charge them as well.
4. Research the company you are being interviewed for.
Make sure you are clear on what the company does, what are their main goals and objectives as well as possible challenges. Consider your qualifications, how you fit into the company and how you will bring value.
5. Ask your friend or family member to do a mock interview phone call with you.
Think about the questions that the hiring manager is likely to ask you. You can make a cheat sheet to have with you during your interview. Some common interview questions for both phone interviews and face-to-face interviews are:
- What is the most challenging part of your current job?
- Tell me about yourself. What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What are your salary expectations if you are hired?
Try to imagine the interviewer’s follow-up questions so you will be prepared for the flow of the conversation.
6. Record and listen to your voice.
This can be a very helpful step, especially if you don’t have much experience in public speaking. Make sure your pronunciation is clear, and you speak loud enough that your voice can be heard.
7. Think about the impression you want to leave.
Since they won’t see you, how you sound is even more important. Make sure you sound confident but not arrogant. Practicing ahead of time will help you find the perfect pitch and speed for your voice.
Feel Confident During the Phone Interview
If you have prepared for the interview, then you are much less likely to be nervous when the time of the interview comes. If you start the interview on time and are prepared, then you will make a great first impression.
Check all the technology that will be required for the call. If your cell phone connection is not reliable, then try to use a landline for the interview. Ask your housemates not to disturb you during the call.
Here's a list of things that will be helpful to have next to you during the phone interview:
- A glass of water
- A copy of your resume and cover letter for reference
- The job description
- Your notes or cheat sheet
- A pen and a sheet of paper
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After the Phone Interview
When you finish your interview, ask the hiring manager for contact information so that you may send them a thank you letter following the interview. It is important to follow up just as you would for an in-person interview. You can also let them know any follow-up questions you may think of between the interview and the time you send them a thank you note.
FAQ: Phone Interview Tips
How can I feel less nervous during the phone interview?
If you practice for the phone interview and consider the possible questions the interviewer will ask, then you can feel more confident. Using notes or a cheat sheet can also help to soothe your nerves and get you one step closer to your dream job.
Are phone interviews less formal than in-person interviews?
No. During your job search, you should take telephone interviews just as seriously as in-person interviews. Maintain the same demeanor and attitude you would in real life. Do not chew gum, fidget, or multitask. You should even send a thank you note following the phone interview, the same as you would for an in-person interview.
How should I speak in a phone interview?
Speak as clearly as possible. Take your time formulating your answers to prevent the need for repetition. Use your vocal tone to show your excitement about working for the potential employer. A monotone voice will sound sleepy and unexcited.
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