How to Prepare for a Phone Interview

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By 3CMom
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Do Research and Take Notes

Preparing for a phone interview is a must. Even if that phone interview is called an informal phone interview, there is no such thing. The purpose of the phone interview is to weed out job clients without the time and expense of in-person interviewing. The interviewer will be asking a series of questions to get a feel for your personality and communication skills. With some preparation and helpful hints you will have the necessary tools to ace the phone interview and be asked to come in for an in-person interview or meeting.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

Resume
Research
Etiquette
List of Strengths & Weaknesses

Step 1

Research the company you are interviewing with and the job position. Go online and get familiar with the company, their mission statement, and any other important information. Know the job position forwards and backwards, be prepared to explain the position to the interviewer. If you do not understand the position you are interviewing for, or think it is more glamorous than it really is does not place you well.
Step 2

Make a list of your strengths and weaknesses. Ask yourself about past accomplishments, when you were a team player etc. Write these down and have them handy for reference during the interview. Questions I have received included: What is your biggest accomplishment? Tell me about a time when you had to make a decision that was not black or white, explain? Would you rather be at a large party with a lot of people, or at a movie alone? You may not know exactly what questions are going to be asked but with a list of your strengths and weaknesses close by you will be able to respond to questions quickly.
Step 3

Keep your resume in sight for quick reference. Be able to explain your resume in more detail and answer any questions the interviewer may have.
Step 4

Use etiquette. Be courteous. Do not interrupt the interviewer while they are talking. Do not eat, drink, or chew gum while on the phone. Do not type or have the T.V or radio on. Conduct the interview in a quiet place. Have a sitter watch the kids. Put the pets in another room. Ensure a quiet peaceful atmosphere. Answer the interviewers questions completely but do not make your answers long winded. After the interview is complete thanks the interviewer on the phone and send either an email thank you or a handwritten version.

Comments

greatnews said

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on 4/16/2009 Great tips on How to Prepare for a Phone Interview! 5 *'s

Sensei said

on 4/14/2009 Well written and thanks for including the example questions. Phone interviews are tough to master, because of the lack of face to face communication.