How to Prepare for a Phone Interview in 5 Simple Steps

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Congratulations; you have been invited for a phone interview! Before you get too nervous, it’s time to get pumped up for this important call. But first, let’s share some valuable insight into phone interviews, and help you get ready for this event.

What You Need to Know About Phone Interviews

What exactly is a phone interview and why did you get asked for one? The phone interview is a critical step in the selection process for many recruiters. They often use this to screen candidates and decide if they are suitable to bring in for an in-person interview. Therefore, you can pat yourself on the back – because out of the hundreds of applicants that applied for the job, YOU got invited for a phone interview. This means you have the right qualities to start with. It also means you need to make the most of the time you spend on the phone with the recruiter.

Get Ready for the Phone Interview

Now that you understand a little more about what phone interviews are all about, it’s time to start mentally preparing yourself for the big day. Here are some pointers for preparing for a phone interview in just five steps.

Secure the Interview Details

When you are asked for a phone interview, you will want to do two things: Set up a calendar reminder for the day before, and understand how the call will take place. Some recruiters will call you directly by phone, or they may use a webinar or conference line to meet with you. Get these details in advance, be sure you can access any webinar or teleconference software, and have a noise-reducing handset available for the call. Confirm the date and time via an email at least the day before the actual phone interview takes place.

Choose a Space for the Interview

The environment in which you take the interview call matters more than you may imagine. You will want to be in a space that is quiet and distraction-free. You will want to eliminate any potential background noise from traffic, children, pets, office phones, and more. Do not take the phone interview in your car while driving, or at your current place of employment. Instead, go to a back office, a bedroom in your home, or a private meeting space; close the door, and get focused.

Have Your Resume Handy

As part of the phone interview, the recruiter may want to briefly go over certain aspects of your career history. Expect this and have a copy of your resume on hand to look over. In a phone interview, it’s easy to get confused or freeze up, so having your resume and something to write with can help.

Prepare Interview Questions

Your phone interview will consist of a brief introduction followed by a few direct questions from the interviewer. However, we advise that you also prepare a couple of questions of your own since you may be asked if you have any. Make the questions relate to your interest in the job and the company, such as finding out if the position is a new one or if you may be replacing someone. Ask if the job is full time, if you will be required to relocate, and any objectives that the position fulfills. Always ask the recruiter what the next steps will be in terms of the hiring process and if they have your full contact information in case they need more information from you.

Be On Time with a Glass of Water

In addition to being on time (or a few minutes early) for the phone interview, get yourself a nice big glass of cold water. This may seem a little silly, but your voice is the only way you get to make a first impression with the recruiter so you need to sound great on the phone. Clear your throat before the call, take a few sips of the cold water and you will be amazed at how this will get your voice ready for the interview. It also helps you to relax and focus on your speech.

Now, go ahead and head into the phone interview with confidence and a smile. You will sound wonderful to the recruiter, your strengths will shine through, and you may be on your way to a brand new career.