The Phone Interview

The Phone Interview

Phone interviews are common today as a second step following résumé screening. They are used by the hiring manager to get to know you a little better and to dive deeper into your résumé and experience. More importantly however, the phone interview will make or break your chances of getting to the in-person interview.

Unlike the in-person interview however; the phone interview immediately puts you at a disadvantage. You never know when the call is going to come. You might be rushing around the house or just returning home carrying an armful of groceries when the HR manager from your dream company calls to ask you a few questions.

Always expect a phone interview. As much as you can, be prepared for it. This is the hiring manager’s chance to get clarification on aspects of your experience or to ask you questions relating to your education and qualifications. They will, therefore, ask you questions relating directly to what is on your résumé. Be sure to keep a copy of it near the phone so you are both ‘reading off the same page.’

A question asked to further stream candidates is salary expectation. Don’t be shocked if you are asked this over the phone. Try to do a little research into how much the company pays. If you are comfortable with the level of financial compensation, give a number in line with what you know they are offering. Asking for an amount far in excess of what they generally offer will potentially exclude you as a candidate.

If you’ve submitted résumés to various companies, expect that each time your phone rings for a hiring manager to be on the other end of the line. Answer the phone accordingly. Sound professional in your greeting and ensure there are no distractions such as a blaring stereo or television.

While we cannot see the face of who is at the other end of the line (unless they have asked to do the interview via Skype or Facetime!) we can definitely pick up on the other person’s enthusiasm. Sound as if you want the job and be convincing when answering questions. You will be asked why you left your last position; what type of position you are interested in; why you are applying to work at that particular company. Try to avoid answers such as “I’ll take whatever,” or “I’m desperate for a job right now to pay bills.” I hear this frequently. While such answers might point to the underlying truth of why you are applying for a position they are most definitely interview killers. Rehearse a few answers to the above questions that can be conveyed in one or two sentences.

To sound engaged, interested and confident try standing instead of sitting when on a phone interview. Smile when you talk and imagine that the person you are talking to is actually in front of you. That you have received a follow-up call is a great sign. Your résumé made it through the initial and perhaps second reading. The call shows that the company is interested in talking to you and now considers you a serious candidate.