Secret Telephone Interview Tips
Anna Press, a former recruitment agent with over 10 years experience in conducting telephone interviews shares her experiences below:Preparing for a PHONE INTERVIEW
ҠBefore 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 companys 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 youre 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.Ҡ There are many ways to help you prepare for the telephone interview.Ҡ Have a friend/ family member conduct an interview.Ҡ 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 youre 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. ҠDont rush what youre trying to say. Ensure that you sound enthusiastic and passionate.
*Dont 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 peoples name. They are your potential employer not your mate
*Take your time Dont rush the interview. This is your time to shine.Ҡ 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
*Dont forget to ask questions.ҠҠ What NOT to do during the interview:
*Dont eat, drink, chew gum
*DO NOT SMOKE
*Dont interrupt the interviewer.
*Dont answer with just a yes and no- elaborate your answers, provide examples if applicable
*Dont be too Casual/informal
*Long winded answers to questions Conclusion:
ҠThe 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 dont blow your interview by not being ready.
Good luck!