Telephone Interview Advice
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Telephone interviews are becoming more popular for many reasons: lower costs for the company, shorter interview times and because they're so easy to arrange. There are not only advantages to the company however - a telephone interview will benefit you by not having to leave home, not having to dress accordingly and most importantly, you can keep pre-planned answers ready for the call.
Before the telephone interview:
A telephone interview will probably cover areas including: your experience, availability and salary requirements so try to prepare details before the call. This will help you sound more "polished" during the interview.
Unfortunately, a telephone interview is unlikely to lead to a job offer so your main objective is to secure an interview at the company. Although this means having to go through another interview, at least you will be more prepared and will have more facts with regards to the company and the position you are applying for.
Before the call, ensure you have all the necessary information with you - it will not sound professional if during the interview you do not have all the relevant information. Items you may need could include: a pen, paper, a calculator, the job advertisement, your CV, a list of your achievements, a list of pre-planned questions to ask about the company and the position, and finally, your diary.
During the call:
During the interview make sure you smile. This might sound silly considering nobody can see you but it will come through in your voice. Make sure you speak as clearly as possible and do not drink, smoke or eat during the call - this will not sound professional! Also, avoid saying things such as: "erm..." - to prevent this, practise answering some questions before the call.
During the call make sure you keep notes of what you are being told and questions you are being asked - nobody can see you, so use this to your advantage. By making a quick note of the questions you are being asked you can prepare answers for other interviews. In addition to this, when being asked questions, avoid giving one word answers, such as "yes", or "no" - try to expand on any points you would like to make.
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Related Pages:
- Introduction to interviews
- Interview questions / answers
- Interview do's and don'ts
- Questions to ask in an interview
- Behavioural interview advice
- How to write a thank-you letter
- Salary negotiation advice
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