How To Prepare For A Great Phone Interview
A good résumé may no longer be enough to get you in the door. Increasingly companies and recruiters want you to complete a telephone interview first. Review these phone interview tips and techniques so you can “ACE” the interview and make it to the next round.
Research the Company
Thoroughly research the company and the interviewer, just as if you were preparing to meet in person. Expect some variation on the question, "What do you know about us?" If you are not able to state the company’s key figures, strategy and markets, the interview might be over after only three minutes. One of the nice things about a phone interview is that you can have your "cheat sheet" in front of you. If you have advance notice of the interview, make sure to review the job description and do a bit of research on the company.
Prepare in Advance
Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular in-person interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions. Don’t forget to have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer.
Create a comfortable zone
If you don't have a lot of experience with phone interviews, you might find them more stressful than in-person interviews. So do everything you can to feel at ease. Shut out distractions and eliminate background noise (for example, from young children and pets).
Show the Employer You're a Match
Take the time to match your qualifications to the job description so that you can speak to why you're a strong candidate for the position. Review your resume as well. Know the dates when you held each of your previous jobs, and what your responsibilities were.
Have Your Job Materials Nearby
You should feel comfortable and ready to discuss your background and skills confidently during a phone conversation. Have a copy of your resume nearby, so that you can refer to it during the interview. Also have a copy of the job posting and a copy of your cover letter if you sent one.
