10 tips for phone interview success

1. Free ebook
10 Tips For Phone
Interview Success
2017

3. Job interview checklist:
• behavioral interview
• situational interview
• types of interview questions
• interview thank you letters
• Mistakes in job interview
• Things to do after job interview

4. Useful free ebooks for your job interview:
• http://jobinterview247.com/free-ebook-145-interview-questions-and-answers
• http://jobinterview247.com/free-ebook-top-22-secrets-to-win-every-job-interviews

5. 1. Have a plan.
As you would do in preparation for any
interview, take some time to develop a
success plan. Start by mapping out your
key strengths, talking points and
qualifications as they relate to the
position. While you would never read
anything (including a script) while
interviewing, having a few bulleted items
on hand can help if you get sidetracked
or when nerves take over. Plan your
questions for the interviewer in advance.
This way, you verbally reflect your
preparation and respect the interviewer’s
time.

6. 2. Be organized.
Have a copy of your resume, cover
letter and job description printed out
and in front of you. And because
you’re not visible to the interviewer,
you should also have the
organization’s home page opened on
your computer to refer to as needed.

7. 3. Minimize distractions.
In the age of technology, you need
to be extra cognizant of outside
distractions. Mute other phones,
email and text alerts along with any
incoming call notifications, as they
can disrupt your conversation and
train of thought. Discernible
ambient music, television,
doorbells, pets and children can
also bring the interview to a
screeching halt.

8. 4. Pick the right time.
The best time to conduct a phone interview is
when you can flex a little time before and
after. Normally, telephone interviews range
anywhere from 15-60 minutes, depending on
interest and your professional level, but be
open if more time is required. Also, trying to
squeeze in a conversation during work, while
driving, or when you're not at your best can
negatively impact your focus. Ideally, schedule
the interview when you’re well-rested and at
home in familiar, comfortable and controlled
surroundings. If you must take an interview
away from home, find a private space where
you’ll not be interrupted, observed, or feel the
pressure of a time deadline.

9. 5. Be forthcoming.
If an emergency, major distraction,
illness or unavoidable interruption
occurs, be honest with the
interviewer and ask to reschedule.
More often than not, they will
appreciate your honesty and
respect of their time.

10. 6. Answer professionally.
Get in the habit of answering the
phone with your name in a way that
projects a professional demeanor and
puts the caller at ease. Don’t let your
family members, friends or children
answer the phone. If you’re not in a
suitable location to take the call, let
your professional voicemail capture
the message and return the call as
soon as possible. Also, answer your
phone in a timely fashion and don’t
play coy by letting it ring for too long.

11. 7. Observe body language.
Even though you aren’t visible to the
interviewer, body language and
demeanor are easily detected over the
phone. Yes, you can "hear a smile"
because it adds energy to your voice. An
interviewer will pick up on your interest
in the position when you practice the
positive habit of sitting up straight and
leaning in as you would in a face-to-face
interview. On the other hand, certain
habits, like sighing, pacing, chewing gum,
pen tapping, etc. may seem innocuous
but will be detected and become a
distraction during the interview.

12. 8. Communicate thoughtfully.
As you conduct daily phone conversations,
practice your communication skills. Work on
your tone, pitch and professional presence as
you speak with others. Ask for feedback on
how clearly your message was received and
whether you sounded positive, enthused and
interested in the conversation. The same goes
for listening. When you deeply listen to the
recruiter, you will discern their emotional
response to your answers so you can
recalibrate if necessary. Practice the art of
listening both in person and on the phone and
see if you and your practice partner or coach
feel confident in your approach.

13. 9. Prepare for negotiation.
The No. 1 rule of interviewing is to
avoid discussing money until after an offer
has been made. Still, you should be
prepared for your negotiation as you
launch your job search, as it will help you
select the right language to communicate
your interest yet maintain your
desirability.

14. 10. Practice gratitude.
Too often, we take for granted that
others understand our appreciation. Get
in the habit of saying “thank you” more
often. By doing so, you’ll be opening
more doors and understand the
importance of expressing gratitude. After
a phone interview, in addition to
communicating your “thanks,”craft a
personalized thank you note to send or
email the interviewer.