Employers use phone interviews as an initial time-saving tactic to save lengthier in-person interviews for the most qualified candidates. During phone interviews, employers ask questions to get an initial impression of the candidate and how suitable they will be for the position.
Related: Acing That Job Interview
Schedule and appropriate time for the interview
Once the employer contacts you (typically via email but also via phone call), respond quickly and professionally. Schedule the interview with enough extra time in case the interview goes longer than expected. In this way, you will feel secure knowing you have more than enough time for your interview.
Ensure you choose a time where you will be somewhere free of noise and distractions. In this way, you can be as confident as possible and seem very professional.
Understand the company before the phone interview
It’s important to know your interviewer. Find out the job title of the person doing the interview if it’s being done by someone at the company and not a recruiter. You can do this by researching them further.
Use the company’s website to learn more about the organization. Find out what they do, what industry they are a part of and who the clients are. If they have a portfolio, look at past projects they have done so you can reference them during the interview. This will make you look like an informed and well-prepared candidate.
Understand the position and prepare questions
Consider reading through the Job Description again to fully understand what would be expected of you in this role. When you know the duties and responsibilities of the job, you can highlight how your skills and training will make you a successful employee.
Employers are typically impressed by candidates who have prepared insightful questions. Write down anything you don’t understand about the position. You can also ask about anything else you couldn’t find while doing your research. Ensure you keep your questions professional and polite.
Prepare for common phone interview questions
Do your research on common interview questions and prepare responses for them. You should show you are a skilled candidate with experience, with your answers.
Here are some questions to prepare for:
- Tell me about yourself
- Why did this job interest you?
- Why do you want to work for us?
- What are your salary expectations?
Have applicable documents nearby
Use the format of a phone interview to your advantage by having applicable documents nearby. You resume will be an important document to reference and the job description will help you with talking points. It’s a good idea to have your prepared answers nearby as well.
Write down important information
As your interviewer speaks, write down any important information they share, for example, who you’ll be reporting to, the sales areas you’ll be responsible for and more. You can reference this information during the conversation or use it if you get a second interview.
Ask questions and about the next steps
The notes you’ve taken will help you to know which questions to ask at the end of the interview. Pay attention during the interview so you only ask about what hasn’t been mentioned
After asking questions, be sure to ask about the next steps if they are not mentioned. Then thank them for their time and let them know you look forward to hearing from them.
Send a follow-up email after the phone interview
Within a day of the interview, send a follow up email thanking them for speaking with you. Include any other useful information that will help them in their decision process. Make sure to ask if they need anything from you.
