Phone Job Interview: Tips for Telephone Interviews
The tips on research and
preparation still apply if your interview is by phone.
However, since the
interviewer can't see your facial
expressions showing your enthusiasm, warmth, sincerity and
confidence, you need to be extra aware of making that come
across in a phone interview.
The interviewer also can
not see if you have your resume and notes in front of you,
so use that to your advantage in being prepared for the
interview. Be sure you can't be
heard shuffling through papers though. Also, don't
let the papers be a distraction to you.
Have a list of the
employers and jobs for which you've
applied next to the phone so you can quickly reference the
call if unexpected.
Why do employers use telephone interviews?
Phone interviews are cost effective and take less time
than a live interview. In addition, they provide convenience
to the interviewee. Some employers use telephone interviews
in the screening process before bringing the “finalist
candidates” on-site. Unscheduled telephone interviews let
the prospective employer know how well the candidate can
think on his or her feet. Phone interviews are used to
confirm resume information and ask basic questions, such as
experience, expertise, or knowledge level.
Things to keep in mind:
- Make sure you have a copy of your resume,
transcript, and the job description in front of you
during the interview.
- Practice going through a telephone interview.
- Record a professional message for your voicemail.
- Have a “canned” response ready for an interviewer if
you are caught off guard.
- Turn off the music or the television during the
interview.
- Do not eat, drink, or chew gum during the interview.
- Do not type on your computer during the interview.
- Do not ask the interviewer if he or she can call you
back later.
- Be enthusiastic – show interest in the position and
the organization.
- Ask pertinent questions about the job and company,
not just about salary, benefits, and/or too general
items.
- Talk slowly and show self-confidence.
- Thank the interviewer for his/her time.
Sample Questions for Telephone Interviews
- Tell me about your most recent internship.
- What interests you about working at our company?
- Based on your research, what do you know about our
organization?
- What is your understanding of the position?
- Are you currently authorized to work in the United
States?
- What would you consider an acceptable amount of
travel?
- In your opinion, what are the top three trends in
the field today?
- Based on the description that I have provided, what
technical/nontechnical qualifications would you bring to
the position?
- What questions do you have for me?
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