Companies often use phone interviews to determine which candidates to shortlist and invite in for a more in-depth interview. Since these screenings are usually shorter than traditional interviews, and you don’t get the benefit of face-to-face interaction, using the right strategies is essential if you want to impress.
In many cases, preparing for a phone interview should mimic getting ready for an in-person one. However, you’ll also want to integrate a few extra techniques to ensure you make a positive impression. If you want to ensure you’ll shine, here are some tips on getting past the phone interview stage.
Confirm the Time and How You’ll Connect
A day or two before your phone interview, confirm the date and time to ensure you’ll be ready at the right moment. Additionally, review any details about how you’ll connect with the hiring manager. In some cases, the hiring manager may call you directly. In others, you’ll contact the company or call a conference line.
Knowing when the call takes place lets you ensure you’re ready. Similarly, understanding how you’ll connect lets you avoid a potential misstep, guaranteeing you’ll answer the incoming call or contact the correct phone number when the time is right.
Spend Time Researching the Company
As with an in-person interview, being able to customize your answers to the company’s unique needs makes a difference. Since that’s the case, spend time researching the company before your meeting. Learn about its products or services, dig into its culture, and review its mission and values. That makes it easier to align your responses to what matters to the hiring manager.
It’s also wise to see if the company has had any recent achievements or breakthroughs. You’ll have an intriguing point to discuss with the hiring manager if you do, making it easier to show that you’re excited about the opportunity.
Remain Polite and Professional at All Times
Politeness and professionalism are the foundation of making a good impression. Keep your tone upbeat without going overboard. Maintain a friendly attitude while keeping the conversation focused on the role and company.
Also, avoid badmouthing your current or past employer. Even if the workplace or job were genuinely horrific to deal with, keep those details to yourself regardless of whether the hiring manager asks why you’re leaving (or why you left) the position. In the end, it’s always best to focus on the positive, ensuring you come across as professional.
Have Some Notes Available
One benefit of a phone interview is that you can have notes nearby when you’re speaking with the hiring manager. Jot down a few tidbits about achievements you want to highlight, skills you’d like to discuss, or even questions you may have about the job. By doing so, you’re less likely to forget an important point.
Make Sure Your Phone Is Ready
For a phone interview, it’s usually best to use a landline if one’s available, as you’re less likely to have call clarity issues. However, if that isn’t an option, spend time getting your phone ready before the call. Make sure it’s sufficiently charged and silence any notifications that may distract you during the interview. Also, conduct a test call with a friend or family member 15 minutes before the meeting to ensure you have a solid signal.
Ultimately, the tips above can increase your odds of getting past the phone interview stage. If you’d like to learn more, the staff at The Squires Group can help. Contact us today.
