Employers use telephone interviews as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as a way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates. If you are lucky you will have a predetermined time for a phone interview, but other calls might come unexpected. Make certain you always have your resume, paper and pen within reach. Expect to get questions asking you to show you actually have the skills to accomplish the goals for the open position. Be prepared to give well-thought-out and concise examples of how you have performed in the past.
When the call comes, place your self in a quiet environment, shut off the radio, turn off call waiting and step away from the blackberry. You need to be completely focused on the interview taking place. At the beginning of the interview make certain to get the interviewer's name and phone number. If for some reason, the call comes at an inappropriate time, ask if you can call back later.
Consider getting dressed up for the interview. Even though no one will see you, studies have shown that people act their best and have more confidence in themselves when they are dressed professionally. If you have a favorite suit that fits you well, and you like the way it looks, this will make you feel better about yourself, and thus sound more confident over the phone.
Other helpful phone interview tips include: 1)Stand up while talking, this will give you more confidence and energy. 2) Smile, although it may sound counter intuitive, people can hear a smile. Smiling will make the tone of your voice up beat and project a positive image. 3) Speak slowly and enunciate clearly. 4) Take your time when answering questions, collect your thoughts before responding to a potentially career defining question. 5) Make certain to answer the question that is asked of you. 6) Be a good listener. Avoid interrupting the interviewer before he completes his thought or question. 7) Focus on what you can do and what you can offer.
Finally, if you are truly interested in the position make sure you express your interest to the interviewer and ask what the next step will be. Remember to say "Thank you" and follow up with a thank you note. After the phone conversation write down everything that was asked of you and how you responded.
By following these simple tips you will present yourself in the best possible light and will be one step closer to an in-person interview. Please contact Kunin Associates if you have any additional questions about phone interviewing at 954-467-9575, and one of our Recruiters would be happy to speak with you.
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