Gone are the days of treating the phone interview as an informal screening process.
Mastering the Phone Interview
Gone are the days of treating the phone interview as an informal screening process. Conversely, today’s job seeker must realize how critical this introductory step toward employment has become. Employers take a job candidate’s performance in the phone interview very seriously. Knowing what to do before, during, and after the phone interview can help the job seeker make the most of this opportunity.
Thanks to the hard work of fellow volunteers from Fairhaven Job Seekers, we have a flowchart to share with you this month:
First, notice the importance of gathering appropriate tools. It is just as important to do company research and gather company data now as it is for your face-to-face interview. Is your resume current? Do you have questions on hand to ask when the time is right?
Now for the interview itself: it is important to be alert, stand/walk during the interview, and wear a smile! Take your time and do not hesitate to ask for extra time to take notes, as this will show your genuine interest. Because the interviewer(s) cannot see you, it is vital for you to be as expressive as possible. Do you have a quiet space reserved for the interview? Are your tools (including your computer) out and ready to go before you begin?
Proper follow-up to the phone interview is vital if you are hopeful for an in-person interview. Immediately debrief all of the conversation you can remember. If you were interviewed by more than one person, make your notes specific to each person for future reference. Drop a simple, handwritten “thank you” note in the mailbox the same day to express your gratitude for the interviewer’s time and consideration.
Finally, it is important to keep good record of your phone interviews. Always record what went well and what you know you can improve. Include contact information for future use if necessary. Are there questions you wish you would have asked? Write them down so you can remember them for the next time!
Following this process will help you feel confident and successful when conducting your phone interviews. Keeping this flowchart handy will help you remember the steps you need to take!
Now…go master your next phone interview!
