Phone Interview Etiquette

Use proper etiquette for phone interviews.

Phone interviews are a popular way for employers to screen potential employees. With preparation and practice, you can develop etiquette skills for phone interviews so you excel during the interview. By taking the time to prepare for your phone interview, you increase the chances of being hired by the company.

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Preparation
- Preparing yourself for your phone interview is key to performing well during the interview. If you have a scheduled phone interview, use your time wisely to prepare. Research the company and the job that you have applied for so that you can easily discuss aspects of the job or company. Perform a practice interview with a friend so you can receive feedback and improve on any weakness. Print a copy of your resume so you can refer to it during the interview. Have a glass of water nearby during the interview to keep your mouth moist in case you are nervous. Make sure you have a quiet place where you can interview without interruptions.
Body Language
- During the phone interview, it is important to note your body language. Although the interviewer will not physically see your body, your posture can impact how you sound on the phone. Sit up straight or stand so you sound alert. Do not dress in casual clothing, such as pajamas. This will help you act professionally during the interview. Smile during the interview so your voice and tone are friendly rather than negative or confrontational.
During the Interview
- Address the interviewer by his title unless he asks you to call him by a different name. Speak slowly and clearly with a positive tone in your voice. Take your time while answering questions to provide thoughtful, concise answers. Avoid lengthy explanations and rambling. If there are pauses in the conversation, consider that the interviewer might be reviewing his notes. Do not eat or chew gum during the interview. If you are drinking water to keep your throat moist, do so away from the phone so the interviewer does not hear. Finish the interview by asking thoughtful questions to demonstrate your interest in the company, and thank the interviewer for his time.
After the Interview
- After the call, send a follow-up thank you note to the interviewer to show your appreciation. Write in your notes all questions the interviewer asked so you have a record of what was discussed.
Creating an Interview Log
- Keep a log of the jobs you have applied for. Leave space in the log to write notes if the company has called and left you a voice mail, and record the date and time you returned their call. Log the dates and times of your phone interviews as well as any follow-up interviews. A log is a simple way to track your job search and keep track of your interviews. If you live with others, have them enter missed calls in your log and ask them to act professionally when answering the phone.

Photo Credit wireless phone image by timur1970 from Fotolia.com

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Phone Interview Etiquette

Preparation

Body Language

During the Interview

After the Interview

Creating an Interview Log

References

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