Have a Phone Interview? Here's How To Ace It!

You have spent a large amount of time applying for jobs and creating networks, so it's very realistic that at any moment, you could get a recruiter calling you to do a phone interview. Are you ready?

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO?

If you can, find a quiet place so that you can talk without background noise and interference.

If you are unable to find a quiet place,  you can:

1. Answer the phone and ask if you could schedule for another time more convenient. Suggest times, and be sure to be available at that time.
2. Let your voice mail get the call.  If you choose this option, make sure your voice is clear and the message is free from background noise, music and especially profanity.  You are still selling yourself, and your voice mail represents you more than you think.

WHY it matters? 

There is nothing worse than talking to someone when all you can hear is background, distracting noise.  It takes the emphasis off of what you're saying and is just unprofessional.  

You are in a quiet area free from background noise and interruption.  What's next?

When you answer the phone, clearly say hello, and state your name.
  "Hello, this is JANE DOE."  avoid "Hi", "What's Up?", "Speak!" etc

WHY it matters?
If you are applying for a job where you will be talking on the phone or dealing with customers, this gives the potential employer a chance to see how you sound (clarity and intonation). This becomes part of your selling pitch.

You have a potential employer on the phone. You've answered and are ready to begin the phone interview process.

Some quick Do's and Don'ts:

Don't eat, drink, smoke or chew - all of these have the ability to distort what you're saying to the point that you are not easily understood.  You could also choke.

Do pronounce your words and speak slower than you normally would.

Do smile (yes, even on the phone). It actually comes through when you're speaking. Smiling has the tendency to put us in a good mood and it can change the tone in your voice.

Don't multitask.  Right now is the time to focus on the phone interview and nothing else. Give your complete attention to the call at hand, it could be your next job.

Do keep a copy of your updated resume with you. On the back, list accomplishments and quick notes. It's a great reference tool during a phone interview.

Do ask questions and take notes.

Don't interrupt the interviewer or become argumentative.

At the end of the interview, ask what the next step of the hiring process is and if there is any further information you can provide.

REMEMBER:
Finding a job sometimes can be a job in itself.  A phone interview can be a part of that process. Knowing how to get through the interview can line you up for the next step (face-to-face), get you the job, or leave you asking what you did wrong, and why weren't you hired.

The most important factor is you.  Practice your phone skills the same as if you were doing face-to-face interviews so you are both comfortable and confident when your number is called.

Good luck!