As the economy continues to struggle, many employers are finding creative ways to cut costs, especially in recruitment. Fewer employers will pay for the cost of flying in an applicant for an interview, followed by wining and dining. In fact, it has become more common to skip the in-person interview altogether in favor of a phone or video interview. Many employers also use interviews to pre-screen applicants before inviting them in for an in-person interview. While some may consider this a disadvantage since it robs you of the benefit of your in-person charm, there are many things you can do to ace the phone interview and turn the situation to your advantage.
Be Prepared
You should treat a phone interview just as you would an in-person interview, and you should be ready to answer questions about your experience and how your skills can benefit the company. Take time to research the company, and be prepared to give detailed answers about why you are a good fit for the job and what skills you have to offer. Since you will be interviewing over the phone, you have a slight advantage in that you can create "cheat sheets" and notes for yourself that you can have ready on the table in front of you or can tape to a wall. If you stumble during the interview, you can quickly refer to your resume or your cheat sheets, which should be readily available. You should also have a pen and paper handy to take notes about questions to raise, or other issues to research at a later time.
Eliminate Distractions
When you take the call for your interview, the room you are in should be quiet and totally free of any distractions. If you have pets or children, make sure that they are in another room and are being looked after by someone. Be sure that no one will knock on the door or enter the room while you are talking. Turn off the television or radio to ensure that there is no background noise.
If you have a landline, you should use it for your interview to ensure that you have a clear connection. Turn off call waiting so that your call is not interrupted. If you are talking on a landline but also have a cell phone, be sure your cell phone is turned off or the ring is set to silent in case you get a call during your interview.
Of course, while you are speaking, do not drink, smoke, or chew gum. Any noise you make will be picked up by the receiver and is likely to be amplified. Make sure that the interviewer hears what you have to say and not distracted by any extraneous noises.
Project Professionalism
Even though the interviewer can’t see you, if you smile and wear professional clothing, you will project a happy and professional attitude that will be evident in your tone. Smile when you talk, and the interviewer will hear that smile in your voice. Even if you don’t wear professional dress, experts recommend that you stand, which will make your voice project more confidence.
Phone Etiquette
Since you can’t rely on verbal cues that help facilitate many conversations and social interaction — such as gestures, eye contact, smiling, etc. — you must be conscientious about the way you speak and your etiquette on the phone. Speak slowly and enunciate well so that you are clearly understood and project a confident tone. Don’t rush to answer. Take a moment to collect your thoughts before you answer, and you will deliver an articulate response.
Have you ever listened to a book on tape? It’s a lot different than watching a movie version of a book. When there are pauses or long descriptive passages, it can be easy to lose concentration. Remember that when you are talking on the phone, it is like someone is listening to the audio recording version of "you." You can’t fill in the gaps with a knowing facial expression or subtle gestures. Therefore, it is important to keep your answers brief and concise. Practice your answers to eliminate verbal pauses and other ticks such as "um…" and "ah…"
Don’t interrupt! Let your interviewer finish a question or thought before answering.
Remember: Your phone interview can be the deciding factor in whether you get a job or are asked back for an in-person interview. Be prepared and have questions ready. When the interview is over, ask to schedule an in-person interview, as well. And if you follow these tips, you’re sure to be successful!
Bio: Alexis Bonari is currently a resident blogger at College Scholarships, where recently she’s been researching cosmetology scholarships as well as cosmetology student loans. Whenever she gets some free time, she enjoys watching a funny movie or curling up with a good book.
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