The phone interview may be your first opportunity to make an impression with a hiring manager. According to Psychology Today “it takes a mere seven seconds to make a first impression.” Here are ten phone interview tips to help you succeed before, during, and after.
Before the Phone Interview
- Schedule your phone interview for the morning, when you and they are most alert and clear minded.
- Ideally, set it up for them call your landline phone if you have one, since the conversation will be clearer than it is on a cell phone.
- Do some research on LinkedIn on the hiring manager and the team. “Follow” the company on LinkedIn and study their website.
The Day of the Phone Interview
- Find a quiet room for the call. Employers do notice ambient noise during the interview and it can be distracting.
- Keep your resume nearby with a notepad.
- Prepare 3-4 questions, such as what are the day to day responsibilities of the position, what are the top priorities of the job, and what are the biggest current challenges faced by the company.
During the Phone Interview
- Get their call back number in case the call drops. Silence the ringer.
- Don’t walk around the room. Stand or sit straight as you speak, as this will project your voice, conveying confidence and authority.
After the Phone Interview
- Follow up immediately, within 24 hours, with an emailed thank you note for each of the interviewers.
- Connect on LinkedIn with the interviewer(s) if you have not already connected with them and follow any new related groups on LinkedIn. These groups may advertise jobs that you would not find anywhere else.
Good luck! With the right preparation, success will come your way!