Phone interviews provide the perfect opportunity for the hiring manager to learn more about you and for you to learn more about the job you have applied for.
If you are excited about pursuing a new job, you need to get the phone interview skills down now. This guide will provide you with tips you need to nail the interview and land a higher chance of success.
Prepare Well for the Interview
Sure, you already know that you need to prepare for your interview, but how exactly are you supposed to do that? Start by learning who you are going to talk and what role they play in the company. If you screen your calls, you might also want to ask what phone number they will be calling from to ensure you don’t miss the interview.
Preparing may also include reviewing the job description again to ensure you know exactly what position you are applying for. Doing so also gives you the opportunity to develop questions for the interviewer. You also can’t do any harm by visiting the company’s website or Wikipedia page to learn more about their work and core values.
If you have any questions before the phone interview, send an email or quick message just to check in. It is better to receive clarity than to enter the interview without all the necessary information.
Ask for a Repeat
If the interviewer asks you something that you can’t understand, don’t keep going. Rather, ask the interviewer if he or she can repeat the question before answering it. Assuming the question can lead to some awkward moments.
Try a Mock Interview
If you have somebody available to help you, you might ask him or her to ask you some interview questions so you can prepare for the real thing. Sometimes having somebody else put you on the spot can make you feel less stressed about the interview process, even if the questions are different.
Dress Up
One of the biggest benefits of a phone interview may be that you don’t need to come in, but you should still put on clothes that make you feel confident. Sometimes dressing the part is beneficial for your mental well-being.
Eliminate Potential Distractions
One of the best things you can do for your interview is take care of distractions before they emerge. Rather than allow noises to go on, find a quiet corner of your home or office to take the call. Avoid using your phone or computer as you talk. The interviewer will be able to tell if you’re distracted by something else.
Sound Enthusiastic
You may be nervous about the interview, but this does not mean you shouldn’t be enthusiastic. Keep your voice light, confident, and somewhat raised; it can help wipe out nerves. Yes, it’s easier said than done, but the results will carry through the phone.
Know Your Preferred Salary
The interviewer may ask you how much you expect to be paid in the position, and this catches many people off guard. Be prepared with a figure you can offer as your preferred salary. Make sure to write this figure down so you can refer to it later with confidence.
Work With a Staffing Agency
A staffing agency can provide you with information you need to move forward in your job search, even if you haven’t landed a phone interview just yet.
Tulsa’s Green Country Staffing offers staffing services. Whether you are planning phone interviews or working on your resume, we can help. Call us today to learn more about staffing services available in your area or how to perfect your job hunting skills.