Written By: Vivian Vega from The Denzel Group
You just found out that you’ve got a phone interview scheduled – congratulations! We know that this step of the process can be both exciting and nerve wracking all in one. It is such a great feeling to know that the resume you provided – and the skills and experience listed - stood out enough for an employer to want to reach out to you and learn more about you. But it’s also your first chance to connect live and can be a make-it-or-break-it point in the interview process.
Are you wondering how you can prepare for a phone interview so that you can increase your chances of moving forward? Here are 6 important tips to remember when preparing for a phone interview!
1. Read the job description
Read the job description thoroughly. It is very important to understand what is expected of you if you were to take this position. The job description may not give every detail about the position what exactly the daily tasks in this role might entail, but it should certainly give you an idea of what the interviewer is looking for. Reading the job description can also be very helpful with providing ideas for questions to ask so you can gain even more information.
2. Learn about the company
“Why do you want to work here?” This is a very common question and can be asked in a variety of ways. But have you really thought about your biggest reason for wanting to work for this company? Do you know what their history and mission is? Do you know what other employees may have to say about this company? Learning as much as you can about the company can be very helpful with explaining why you want to be a part of it.
3. Have your resume handy
Having it with you is a helpful source to refer to so you can answer questions without any confusion. You won’t have to struggle to remember dates of employment or any details about your past responsibilities if you have it ready and available.
4. Be prepared for technical and personality questions
Most interviews include a technical portion and a "personality or customer service" portion. It is very helpful to practice your answers beforehand.
Examples of these questions could be:
· What are your different strengths and weaknesses?
· How would you handle a negative situation?
· How do you deal with uncomfortable situations with coworkers?
· What are your long- and short-term goals?
· Why are you looking for a new position?
5. Make sure that you are in a quiet area to have a clear conversation
Any distractions can steer a phone interview in the wrong direction. It is very important to make sure that you have this conversation in an area that is free of noise so you can be respectful and talk freely. You also want to make sure that you can also listen and understand what is being said to you as well. Be an active listener so you don’t have to ask anyone to repeat themselves multiple times. Also, remember to speak slowly and clearly.
6. Don’t forget to sound excited about the position
If you don’t sound as though you’re excited and energetic about the opportunity to work in that role, it can have a negative impact on your phone interview. Since you are talking on the phone, it is not as easy to show the person interviewing you how excited you are to be given this opportunity. Present yourself as if you were there in person, sit up straight and smile. This can be very helpful with carrying your conversation and having a positive impact.
Taking the time to prepare for a phone interview can go a long way. You are obviously interested in this position that you are interviewing for. Instead of winging it, make your time worthwhile and increase your chances of being asked to proceed to whatever the company’s next step may be. Show that you are interested and make a great first impression by taking the time to prepare. You’ll be happy that you did!
Comments