HOW TO NAIL YOUR NEXT PHONE INTERVIEW

04/05/2021

Gone are the days of the traditional, in-person interview. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies were conducting interviews over the phone or on a computer screen. This offers them a faster, more cost-friendly way to screen candidates and find the potential ones who are the best fit for their needs. For you, though, it can be nerve-wracking.

If you have a phone interviewing coming up, how do you prepare, so you can put your best foot forward? Here are some tips:

MAKE SURE YOU KNOW THE TIME AND WHO WILL BE CALLING.

Being as prepared as possible means re-confirming the call time, details and finding out who will be on the call. If you’re expecting one hiring manager and it’s a hiring team, it might catch you off guard. However, when you know how many people to expect and who will be involved, you’ll be able to better prepare.

RESEARCH THE COMPANY AND THE KEY PLAYERS.

Read the company website, news articles, and social media profiles, so you understand what they do and those they serve. Also, read up on the company leadership and industry news. This will help you offer more meaningful responses to interview questions and ask more thoughtful questions in return.

Before the call, take another look at the job description too, and write down a few ways you’re a great fit. You can keep your notes, along with your resume, right next to you since the interviewer won’t be able to see them.

HAVE A QUIET TIME AND PLACE SET ASIDE.

You don’t want any interruptions during your call. It’s why you need to schedule the interview during a time when you’ll be alone or able to find a private location. Background noises are going to impact the impression you’re making and also distract you during the interview.

SPEAK SLOWLY, CLEARLY, AND CONCISELY.

It’s easy for your nerves to get the best of you. However, when it comes to phone interviews, it’s particularly important to speak slowly, be concise with your answers, and make them as relevant to the role as possible. Make sure you’re also listening actively and being professional in all your answers.

TAKE NOTES AND ASK QUESTIONS.

During a phone interview, it’s much easier to take notes. This will help you when you’re following up after the call. In addition, make sure you have a list of questions you want to ask the interviewer about the role, the company, and the culture. You’ll find out if the opportunity is truly the right fit for you.

ASK ABOUT THE NEXT STEPS.

Before you get off the phone, inquire about the next steps and when a decision will be made. This will give you an idea of what to expect and when to follow up.

Need more help with interviews or your job search?

At Adroit Employment Resources, our goal is to guide you through the process and connect you with a great new opportunity. Our recruiters can help you polish your resume and interview skills and give you access to top jobs at leading employers. Find out more by searching our jobs today!