There’s a Job on the Line: How to Ace Your Phone Interview
You may wonder why employers bother with job interviews. Why don’t they just bring you in if they want to talk to you? The answer is phone interviews can be a great way to conduct the first round of interviews. They are typically shorter than in-person interviews and require no travel time, so they are better for both the hiring manager and the job seeker.
The interviewer can probably fit a half a dozen interviews into the time it would take for one or two in-person interviews. Job seekers can squeeze an interview in during lunch or a break rather than take time off.
If you’ve never had a phone interview, you may not know what to expect or how to make a great impression. The following tips can help you make it to the next step in the hiring process.
Prepare.
Treat the phone interview like an in-person interview. It might seem a little crazy, but dress like you would for an interview. You’ll be surprised how much more confident you’ll feel than if you are slouching on the sofa in sweat pants. Find someplace quiet to take the call so you don’t get distracted. Have everything you need for the interview at hand.
One of the advantages that a phone interview can give you is you can have your resume, job posting, company information, etc., right in front of you. Don’t forget to have paper and a working pen for taking notes.
Research.
Learn everything you can about the company and the job. Check out their website, their reviews and their social media. This is important so you understand the position and the company. It will also show you take the opportunity seriously and will help you impress the interviewer.
Be friendly, but professional.
The interviewer wants to know you will get along with your co-workers. You can communicate this by being outgoing but respectful. Smile when you speak even though they can’t see you, it will come across in the tone of your voice.
Make notes and ask questions.
Find out as much as you can about the position, the next steps in the hiring process and who you would interview with in person. Ask why the position is available. It’s important to know whether the company is growing or just has a lot of turnover.
Prepare for common interview questions.
You may not be asked these questions until the in-person interview, but it never hurts to be prepared. Interviewers typically start with questions about experience, availability and transportation. Then they may ask about why you left your last job, how you handle conflict and what your strengths are. It’s important to remember to always stay positive.
Work with a recruiter
A recruiter can help you find good jobs and prepare you for phone and in-person interviews, so you’ll make a great impression. If you’re looking for work, the specialists at Hamilton-Ryker can help. Contact us today.