Mastering the Dreaded Phone Interview
Preparing for the Interview
- Get a copy of the job description, and write down any and all ways your experience fits with what the company is looking for. Try to recall as many stories as you can of how you have successfully performed one or more of the items they are looking for.
- Update your resume accordingly. Print out a copy of your resume, along with the job description, and have them by the phone. They need to be accessible for quick reference, and they are a great place to take notes during the interview.
- Research the company and interviewer. Print out any pertinent information from the company website, LinkedIn, etc.
- Come up with a list of questions for the interviewer, and have them close by the phone. The more information you have in front of you, the more prepared you will sound during the interview.
During the Interview
- Dress in business attire as if you were going in for an interview. Even though no one will see you, studies have found that people sound more professional when they are dressed the part.
- Stand up during the phone interview. Your voice will sound more confident than it will if you remain seated. I also like to walk around a bit, both to increase the tone and energy of my voice and to walk out any jitters I may have.
- Place a mirror in front of you and make sure to smile. As silly as it sounds, interviewers can hear a genuine smile through the phone.
- Do not let the interviewer get off the phone without expressing your excitement about the opportunity and inquiring about the next step.
After the Interview
- Be sure to follow up with a short, simple Thank You email.
Got any other great tips? I would love to hear them! Leave your comments here…
Posted by Erika Flora at 3/11/2011 10:38 AM 
Categories: RESUME, careers, Communication, Writing, Career, Hiring, Job Descriptions, Recruiting, communication, Job hunting
Tags: project management interview resume recruiting job description career hiring
Categories: RESUME, careers, Communication, Writing, Career, Hiring, Job Descriptions, Recruiting, communication, Job hunting
Tags: project management interview resume recruiting job description career hiring
Hello Erika Flora,
I just read through the Phone interview tips, It was very much edifying and much useful. I am so exited and read thrice, I feel very lucky to find your web site and went through all the links/pages. Thank you for the Inspiration. MAHARAJA, PMP, Project Manager IT infrastructure, India.
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Glad you found it helpful. Have a great week!
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