Create a good first impression over the phone

Rule no. 1: Find a quiet place to talk to recruiter, fully charge your mobile before the interview, and turn call waiting off.  The person on the other line will be able to hear you clearly, and you will be able to hear them.  It sounds simple, but wind can be a factor if you take the call outside!

Rule no.2:  Be friendly!  The conversation will flow more naturally if you create a bit of small talk before jumping into discussing the job details. 

Rule no. 3: Keep honest. When recruiters ask you about past work history and your skill set, don’t exaggerate how many years you spent using Excel formulas.  If you continue in the interview process and your skills are put to test, make sure you are able to do everything you pleaded for.

Rule no. 4: Ask questions.  The purpose of initial phone interviews is for the employer and candidate to get an idea if the company would be a good fit for the candidate and if the candidate would be a good fit for the company. Think of the phone screen as an opportunity to learn about aspects of the position outside of the job description you are already familiar with.

Direct the interviewer to your web portfolio or professional profile if possible, to demonstrate your work in practice.

Show the recruiters that you are familiar with the company’s activity

Rule no.1: Get acquintant with the company! Visit the company website, familiarize yourself with the company’s mission, how and when it was founded, and what aspects stand out on the site. Read what people are saying on the sites of online review left by current and past employee and on company’s social media sites.  Knowing some of this information is helpful in the interview while to ask questions relating to company culture.

Rule no.2: Have a good understanding of the role.  Job descriptions provide the basics of the job and what skills are required for the candidate to be successful if they were considered for the role.  Use the time during the initial screening process to gain a better understanding of what the day-to-day tasks would be.  This way, during the interview you can ask specific questions that narrow in on what is expected of the future employee in the position.   

Look presentable

No matter what outfit you choose to wear to an interview, make sure you look presentable.  Be aware of small details that might catch the interviewer’s eye.  For example, make sure the buttons on your shirt are lined up, and you don’t have noticeable stains on your clothing. 


Think before you speak

It is natural to be nervous during an interview, but don’t let nerves affect what you want to say.  If your nerves are getting the best of you, pause and take a moment to gather your thoughts before proceeding with your answer.  Smile frequently and retain eye-contact.

Be as enthusiastic as possible and let your personality shine.