by Job Savants
20. August 2009 10:30
Many companies use phone conferences to initially screen qualified individuals who have applied for a particular job. Phone interviews can be just as if not more daunting than face-to-face interviews; it is important to remember that they are just as significant and must be equally prepared for. You may be thinking, “It’s just the phone interview, it doesn’t really matter.” But I’m here to tell you it does matter and if you don’t take it seriously, you could disqualify yourself from getting your foot in the door. Here are some key areas to focus on before and during your meeting:
Job Knowledge
During this time of economic crisis and unexpected layoffs, you may have applied for hundreds or thousands of jobs without fully understanding what the job is about. You’ve done this with the hope that just one will click so you have enough money to pay your bills. While this is certainly understandable, you must keep in mind, things may actually “click” and you do get the interview. You want to go in with a clear view of the role and responsibilities of the position and how they relate to the experience you currently have. Having the ability to quickly make and relay the connection between what the company is looking for and what you have to offer is extremely crucial in making it to the next round of interviews.
Tone/Speed
It’s unfortunate but true that many people are silently judged by their looks when they first walk into a face-to-face interview. With a phone interview, you don’t have the luxury of astounding the interviewer with your good looks. Your voice will be the first thing “seen”. The key is to just be you. Don’t focus so much on making sure you are articulate that you change the way you would normally talk. Just ensure your tone and speed are at levels that can be easily understood.
Manners
Unlike a face-to-face, you can’t look at the interviewer and know whether or not he or she has finished a question or statement or if they are going to suddenly say something else. So, you have to listen for verbal cues. You don’t want to find yourself continually excusing yourself for interrupting while he/she speaks. So, count three seconds after he/she has stopped speaking, then speak. This way you don’t appear hasty or as one who is not a good listener.
External Environment
No distractions! Whether it is a dog, person or the television, you want absolutely no distractions. If possible, find a room with a lock so you can better control the commotion. If this is not feasible, use the mute button on your phone so you can silence the noise when the interviewer is speaking.
You also want to be careful of rustling papers. It’s okay to have notes about the position in front of you, but try not to make it obvious.