Career Connections
While searching for a job recently, I have found that many employers are doing phone interviews. I find these awkward and never feel like I do well on them. Do you have advice for how to do well on phone interviews? — submitted by Scott '01
Phone interviews are tough! You don’t get the same type of feedback that you do on a typical interview, so it may be hard to tell how you did. Sometimes the phone interview is the initial screening done by a human resources staff person to see if you are qualified to make it through the first cut and be passed on to the hiring manager. Other times, they are more in depth and done to save time, travel and money. Either way, there are things that you can do to prepare yourself for success on a phone interview.
- Prepare for a phone interview just as you would an in-person interview. Research the company, the position and the people you will be interviewing with. Practice answers to commonly asked interview questions and jot down some notes about what you want to say.
- Have your resume in front of you as well as notes you have taken about the company and how your skills match the qualifications they are looking for.
- Have paper and pen with you to take notes as necessary.
- Stand up when you are on the call. It will make you sound more confident.
- Do not chew gum, eat or drink during the call.
- Do not use a speaker phone, as it will pick up too much background noise.
- Smile! It really does come through on the phone.
- Avoid one word answers! Elaborate and showcase your skills, talents and personality.
- End the conversation in a proactive manner. “I know you are busy, and there is only so much we can cover on the phone. Based upon what we talked about, I am very interested in this position and know that I would be a great asset to your team. I have my schedule in front of me and would love to schedule a time to meet you in person. Is there a convenient time for you that we could meet?"