Prepare
Interviewers are likely not only to ask you what it is about the offer that appeals to you, but will also have a host of questions about your experience, knowledge, skills, expectations – in short, they want to know what makes you the ideal candidate for this particular job.
Review the sorts of questions you are likely to be asked and think deeply about how you will answer them. Do not be tempted to over-sell yourself. Be sincere in your answers, stick to facts, and provide information that you can expand upon in the conversation.
Also, have your own questions prepared beforehand. Some of the things you might want to think about are:
- What challenges will this role bring?
- How is the role likely to evolve over time?
- What kind of skills or attitudes are new recruits expected to bring?
Listen Carefully
Sounds obvious, but it can actually be harder to focus on questions over the phone that in it is face-to-face. Make a conscious effort to listen to each question and think for a second or two how to respond to exactly what the interview is asking. If you are not sure you have understood a question, do not be afraid to ask for a clarification. The objective for both of you is to discover if you are the right fit for the job, so it is key that the right information is exchanged.
Prepare Your Environment in Advance
The last thing you need as you interview for a job is an unexpected interruption, a problem with connectivity or obtrusive background noise. Choose a place and an environment that works for you.
Ensure that your phone is fully charged, or that your Wi-Fi works well, if you are meeting over video conferencing. It is also a good idea to have some water nearby to soothe a dry throat, as well as a notebook and pen. You may need to take notes or jot down an important question that arises during your conversation.
If you have a laptop available, that would also be another item to keep close. You can have your research and notes from preparing for the interview pulled up on the screen before your interview.
Consider Your Body Language
Odd as it may seem, the way you sit or gesture, even an occasional smile, will convey something more about you and your attitude to your phone interviewer.
Relaxing your posture and physically settling into the conversation will help you take charge of the exchange. And the impression you make will be more positive. Though your interviewer cannot see you, they can hear the inflections in your tone. Your relaxed demeanor, confidence level, enthusiasm will all be discernable in your voice. how to excel your phone interview
Key points to remember
Keep always this structure of preparing your interview. Make small plans within each point and evaluate shortly the results yourself. Before your go to take the interview, these are essential for you to have a clear idea of your skills level, job adaption/fit and employment characteristics.
- Research and evaluation of the job characteristic and professional inquiries
- Be prepared. Being prepared for a phone interview means having the confidence to reschedule an impromptu phone call you don’t feel prepared for. There’s nothing wrong with telling a recruiter “I’m sorry, I’m away from my desk. When can I call you back?” Comfortable environment when you can do your interview without distract.
- Believe in your skills and show up your willing to take the job. Also, don’t be afraid to tell your desire and will to learn new skills and advance in your old skills. Whether or not you’re a career change aficionado, there are few things in life more stressful than a first interview. Listen carefully and don’t be afraid to build rapport and show a little personality.
- Be straightforward about your experiences and open to understand during your phone interview.
