Greg Johnson
In a competitive hiring environment you've got to be on your "A Game" no matter what the situation. A lot of companies are choosing to start the hiring process with a phone interview Use these 10 tips to make sure you NAIL it!
Do a little research on the company (products/service, recent awards/announcements, etc.) and, if you know their name, look up the hiring manager on LinkedIn and other social sites. And, com'on guys and gals, have your resume and notes in front of you and go through them ahead of time. This is your first impression, don’t blow it
A private room/office where you will not be disturbed is perfect. Too many phone interviews fail because of questions from colleagues, or the barista behind the counter!
Ensure you allow enough time for the interview and do not assume it will be a ‘quick ten minutes.’
Use a landline if possible. Bad cell reception is the top reason why many telephone interviews fail or never end up happening.
If you aren't sure how to answer the question ask the interviewer to rephrase or repeat it back. You should try to avoid doing this repeatedly but it is better to get your answer right first time.
We like to hear ourselves talk and that can be a pitfall. Make sure to pause before and after answering to give the interviewer the opportunity to hear themselves talk too.
AKA Don't sound like a robot.
To repeat what was said in #1 on the list of the Top 10 Tips of Phone Interviewing ... "BE PREPARED!" - Scar - Lion King
If you did your research on the company and the hiring manager like you should have, then you'll have an opportunity to ask open ended questions about things important to them. Everyone's favorite topic is themselves. WARNING: KEEP IT PROFESSIONAL! DON'T BE TOO PERSONAL BECAUSE YOU'LL COME OFF CREEPY
You will always have a chance to ask questions. You will stand out more if you ask intelligent questions about the business/role and more importantly about them.
Be Enthusiastic! Act like you want the job! Ask what the next steps are and ask for their email so you can send them a thank you email!
