Phone Interviews
Monday, April 28th, 2008
It never rains but it pours.
I have offered interview coaching for all types of interviews. Traditional interviews, competency interviews or behavioural interviews, panel interviews and situational interviews BUT over the last few weeks I have been inundated with requests for phone interview coaching. This could be coincidence but I do have a funny feeling that the number of job applicants for positions is increasing and recruiters are re-introducing the phone interview as an initial screening tools.
If you have a phone interview coming up here are some tips to help.
BEFORE INTERVIEW
Phone a friend – Practice a live interview with family of friends and get feedback. Try to identify bad traits. Also ensure that you speak slowly, clearly and in a polite manner.
DURING INTERVIEW
Relax during interview – most jobseekers find phone interviews easier as they can hide nerves. As with face to face interviews it is essential to relax.
Be yourself – Sell yourself BUT don’t try to be someone you are not.
Professional – Turn off any background noises like the TV and remember that it is an interview. I have known some jobseekers to dress up as they would for a normal interview to get them in the mood. Answer the phone “Good morning, Brian speaking”.
Enthusiasm – The difficulty with phone interviews is that they take away body language so you must portray enthusiasm with you voice and tone. Remember to smile before you pick up the phone.
For more interview and cv advice.
