Phone Interview Etiquette

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Page 1 dealt with preparation now we will talk about phone interview etiquette.

So you have prepared for your phone interview… and here it is.

What are some of the phone interview etiquette that will be important to getting a one-on-one interview?

1-Make sure that you conduct your interview in a quiet place. Interviewers can hear noise and distractions- was that your cell phone ringing? Are you typing on the computer? These noises will detract from how the interviewer will perceive you.

2- Answer the phone in a professional and friendly manner. You are being evaluated form the minute you say “hello”. Remember that the first impression is always the most important. Make an extra effort to sound enthusiastic.

3- Smile throughout the interview. You have heard this before… smiles can be heard through the phone! You will sound more pleasant and more confident.

4- Stand up or at least sit up straight. Your posture will have a big impact on how your voice sounds… so no slouching.

5- Know your resume. Phone interviews often revolve around the resume. Make sure that you know your resume inside and out.

6- Make a connection with the interviewer: All interviews are about finding a good fit for the company. Make sure to build rapport with the interviewer. This can be done by using the interviewer’s name throughout the call (who does not like to hear their name?) or by asking the interviewer about his/her experience with the company,etc

7- Speak clearly and concisely Your voice is your only selling tool. Make sure you sound confident and that speak slowly and clearly.

8- Have questions prepared to ask the interviewer.

9- Listen, Listen, Listen Does the interviewer sound bored, or preoccupied? How did the interviewer respond to how you answered the last question?

10- End on a positive note: always thanks the interviewer for his/her time and let the person know how interested you are in pursuing the job. Feel free to ask about next steps. Sending a thank you letter is always a good touch.

See Page 1 for tips on how to prepare for a phone interview.

See Page 3 for a list of Do’s and Don’t’s.

See Page 4 for a list of commonly asked phone interview questions.

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