5 Hot Tips for Cool Phone Interviews

Article Title:  5 Hot Tips for Cool Phone Interviews
Author Byline:  Karen Burns, Working Girl
Author Website: http://www.karenburnsworkinggirl.com

More and more job interviews are being done over the phone nowadays.  It’s fast, convenient, less costly for both you and the interviewer.

But there’s a downside.  It’s extremely easy to flub a phone interview.  You can’t see the other person and can’t judge how you’re going over.  You’re at home and thus maybe not geared up for the formality that all interviews call for.

Here’re some ideas for what to do, and how:

1.  WHAT TO DO:  Be focused.  HOW:  Use a quiet room.  This means no barking dogs, meowing cats, crying children, honking horns, flushing toilets, or typing/pinging computers.  Also:  Use a reliable phone with a good connection.

2.  WHAT:  Be prepared.  HOW:  Have a piece of paper to take notes on and two pens within reach.   Also have a written list of any questions you want to ask.

3.  WHAT:  Be engaged.  HOW:  Smile.  Try setting up a mirror so you can watch yourself while you talk.  Sounds weird, but it helps.  Also: Sit up straight in your chair.  Or stand!  Your voice will sound more energetic.

4.  WHAT:  Be succint.  HOW:  Speak clearly, don’t interrupt, and don’t babble.  One way to do this is to gesture with your hand as you talk, like an orchestra conductor.   Oh, and think before you answer, even if it means a little beat of silence before you start talking.

5.  WHAT:  Be classy.  HOW:  Use your absolute best manners.  It’s a phone call, but a formal phone call.

Bonus Hot Tip:  Ask a friend to record a practice interview with you and listen to the tape.  Do you hear yourself saying ”uh,” “you know,” “um,” “er,” or “like,” every other word?  Argh.  Practice until you are able to speak without these annoying little tics.

Article courtesy of the Recruiting Blogswap, a content exchange service sponsored by CollegeRecruiter.com, a leading site for college students looking for internships and recent graduates searching for entry level jobs and other career opportunities.