*phone rings*
Answers in pretend Australian accent: 'G'day mate. Wazzuuuuup?'
'Hello there, my name is Ms Whitaker, calling from Unites Ltd. Am I speaking with Matthew Thomas?'
Answers in normal voice: ‘Yes… Yes, you are… Hi there… Really sorry about that…’
Telephone interviews can be tough. Navigating your interviewer's expressions solely by listening to their vocal tones may not indicate how the interview is going. They occur when your job application has been successful, and the company are considering taking you through to the next stage of employment.
Here's how to best handle an interview via your phone.
It can help them weed out the applicants who are not right for the role. Most telephone interviews are scheduled beforehand, so you can ensure you are fully prepared. However, sometimes they may call you, so it's important always to be expecting one and not answer the phone with an unprofessional voice…
There are benefits to the dreaded phone interview, like having notes with you to refer to and the interviewer not being able to see your face of panic when they ask a question you weren't expecting.
With this list of DO's and DO NOTs, you should be on your way to a successful phone interview and the usual next step: a face-to-face meeting—a phone interview cheat sheet.
Do:
When preparing for a phone interview, several important things must be remembered. Firstly, it's crucial to research the company you will be working for thoroughly. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and help you come across as knowledgeable and engaged during the interview. It's also a good idea to prepare a list of questions you have about the company to show your enthusiasm and curiosity.
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Positive affirmations can significantly boost your confidence before the phone call. Please take a moment to write down why you would be a good fit for the job and deserve it. Reminding yourself of your strengths and focusing on the positives will help you project confidence and convince the interviewer of your capabilities.
Practising the interview beforehand is another key step. Enlist the help of friends or family members to conduct mock interviews or write down expected questions and rehearse your responses. You can even record your voice to identify any nervous habits or speech patterns you can improve.
- Prepare
- Say positive affirmations
- Practise beforehand
During the interview...
During the actual interview, don't hesitate to ask questions. Demonstrating your eagerness to learn and understand more about the company will leave a positive impression on the interviewer. Refer to your prepared list of questions and seize opportunities within the conversation to ask for further clarification or elaboration on the job role and responsibilities.
Having notes on hand can be incredibly helpful, especially when recalling specific details about your work experience or important dates. These notes can serve as a quick reference guide to ensure you provide accurate and relevant information during the interview.
Even though the interviewer cannot see you, adopting confident body language can positively impact your mindset. Studies have shown that assuming "power stances" can influence your state of mind and boost your confidence. Additionally, wearing professional attire can help you develop a professional mindset and enhance your confidence.
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Taking notes during the interview is essential. It shows that you are actively engaged in the conversation and allows you to refer back to important details discussed during the call. If the interview is successful, there may be crucial "next steps" or instructions given to you, and having these notes handy will ensure you don't miss any important information.
- Ask questions
- Refer to notes
- Adopt confident body language
- Take notes
Now, let's consider the "do not's" during a phone interview. Avoid interviewing in a noisy or busy place to maintain sound quality and minimize distractions. Ensure your phone is fully charged to prevent unexpected battery failures during the call. While confidence is important, avoid coming across as laid-back or uninterested. Show genuine enthusiasm and engagement throughout the conversation.
Don't:
Now, consider the "do not's" during a phone interview. Avoid interviewing in a noisy or busy place to maintain sound quality and minimize distractions. Ensure your phone is fully charged to prevent unexpected battery failures during the call. While confidence is important, avoid coming across as laid-back or uninterested. Show genuine enthusiasm and engagement throughout the conversation.
If you don't understand or hear something, don't pretend that you did. It's better to ask the interviewer to repeat themselves rather than provide incorrect or irrelevant responses. Interrupting the interviewer is also a major no. Wait for them to finish speaking, listen actively, and compose your answer.
It's not uncommon that you go through an interview when applying for an apprenticeship.
Fill pauses with "us" and "ahs." Instead, take a brief moment to collect your thoughts and formulate your response. It's completely acceptable to pause and gather your ideas before speaking. When referring to your notes, avoid reading directly from them word-for-word. Instead, let them inspire your responses and keep your messages concise and easy to reference, using bullet points to avoid sounding rehearsed.
Lastly, it should go without saying that you should refrain from eating, drinking loudly, smoking, or being under the influence of drugs during the interview.
Here is what not to do summarised:
- Be in a busy place.
- Be on low battery.
- Try to seem laid back.
- Pretend you've heard what they said when you haven't.
- Interrupt.
- Fill pauses with ums and ahs.
- Read directly from your notes.
- Eat, drink loudly, smoke, be under the influence of drugs (it goes without saying)…
- Breathe.
In conclusion, remember to be well-prepared, maintain a positive mindset, and approach the interview sensibly. Take your time, stay calm, and compose yourself. Believe in your abilities and know that you are qualified for the job. With these tips in mind, you are well-equipped to excel in your phone interview.
Post by Lucy Barka
Lucy is a student at the University of Birmingham.
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