Even in a strong job market, there is often intense competition to get a face-to-face interview. For in-demand jobs, hiring managers are usually inundated with resumes. Once they have worked their way through all those resumes (good and bad), they then have to decide who to call. In many cases, if not in most, these calls determine who does and who doesn’t get invited to a face-to-face interview.
While it may lack the formality of a face-to-face interview, a phone interview is no less important. If you fail to give a good account of yourself over the phone, the chances are you that won’t be invited to a more formal interview-you will be out of the running. So what can you do to ensure that you make the cut? Here are a few tips on how to ace your next phone interview:
Clear your schedule
Usually, an interviewer will schedule a time to talk to you. When you have agreed a time with them, make sure that you’ve nothing else on. If an interviewer tells you that they need 30 minutes of your time, then be prepared to talk to them for at least 30 minutes. If you announce 15 minutes in to the call that you have to duck out for a meeting, it is very likely that the interviewer will not be impressed with you. If you can’t spare the time to talk about a new job, the interviewer will likely assume you’re not that serious about it.
Make sure you’re heard
There are few things more frustrating to an interviewer than a dodgy connection. Landline phones tend to have better connections than mobiles, so if possible, ask the interviewer to call you on a landline. If you have to use a mobile, make sure you’re in a place with good coverage. It’s also important that you speak as clearly as possible, and let the interviewer talk without interruption.
Research, research, research
If you want to impress an interviewer, do some research. By knowing your stuff, you’ll not only be able to show the interviewer that you’re a capable candidate, you’ll also prove to them that you’re really interested in the job. Take a long look at the company’s website, get to know their business and the industry they’re in. Make sure you’ve a firm grasp of what the job entails and how your skills fit in with the job’s description.
Have some questions ready
Don’t just think of a phone interview as a way for the interviewer to learn more about you, it’s also an opportunity for you to learn more about the job and the company. Make sure you have a few questions at hand to get a better idea of what the job entails, while also showing the interviewer that you’re genuinely interested.
Know what’s next
When the interview is finished, make sure you find out what happens next. Don’t let the interviewer have any doubts about your interest in the job. Ask the interviewer about the next steps and when you’re likely to hear from them next. And of course, don’t forget to thank them for considering you for the role, and for taking the time to find out more about you.
