How to Conduct a Good Phone Interview

A good phone interview always leaves both parties feeling satisfied. Phone interviews are conducted for various reasons, such as journalism, employment, surveys, studies and much more. Find out the best ways to conduct a good phone interview by following these steps.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Have a list of pertinent questions in front of you.
   
   The best way to conduct a good phone interview is by planning ahead. Take a few moments to jot down important questions that you must ask before placing the phone call. This will help guide you throughout the interview. Place a check mark beside the question once you have asked it or simple draw a line through it to mark if off the list.

2. Have a friendly disposition.
   
   Greet the interviewee when they answer the phone by saying “Hello this is (fill in the blank) from (fill in the blank). How are you?” Cordial greetings help the interviewee adjust faster. Consider this moment the ice-breaker.

3. Be prepared to ask questions that are not prepared.
   
   Many times the interviewee may start talking about something that is extremely interesting, yet off base of the interviewer’s question. In this case, ask a question that relates to the subject matter. This will show that you are a great listener. This will also help you get a true sense of your interviewee’s personality and or background.

4. Practice repetition.
   
   Ask the interviewee to repeat anything that is incoherent or ambiguous.

5. Go over statements made by the interviewee.
   
   This is the best way to ensure accuracy. You may feel like this is a tedious part of the interview, but it is quite the opposite.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you are in a quiet place with all necessary items at your disposal before placing the phone call.
• Keep your sense of professionalism at all times.
• When in doubt, ask why. This will force the interviewee to go into detail about the questions asked.
• Do not be afraid of redirecting the questions. This is your interview and it is important to stay on track.
• Feel free to jot down additional questions during the phone interview.
• Make sure that you know the telephone recording laws in your state before recording the interview.
• Refrain from jokes since you do not know the interviewee's personality.
• Do not make the interview about you! Stick to the subject matter.
• Do not become too friendly with the interviewee, they may not take you seriously.

[MishMish76]

on 2/24/2008 Your tips and insight translate well into other industries. I conduct numerous phone interviews for my manager (we're in Human Resources) and I can utilize the material menioned to be more effective and successful. Thanks for your thoughts!