All that time and trouble to get an interview, then you could blow it all in the first 3 minutes! Time to ensure you've polished your performance so you are in control of your future.
More companies are using telephone interviews in the early stages of the process (perhaps the first one after your application), and are used mainly to discount unsuitable applicants so their 'face-to-face' interview time is better spent.
If you really want the job, or want to get to the 'face-to-face' stage to find out more, here are 10 'top tips' to get you through it:
- Be on your very best behaviour & speak clearly. A phone interview is the best way to check on a candidate's telephone manner, especially where telephone manner and customer contact are key parts of the role (such as call and contact centres). Sometimes, role playing can be used by employers to assess a candidate's strengths and weaknesses, so be ready.
- Smile. Even though no one can see you, smiling will help you to relax and sound positive. Some people also find that standing up while talking on the phone makes them feel more confident and alert. Trust us, it works.
- Shut out noise. Make sure your surroundings are quiet and that you won't be disturbed. Shut the door, turn off the radio - and your mobile. Make sure the family know to leave you alone.
- Have pen and paper to hand. Make notes of what is covered - you may be asked the same questions when you're invited to a second interview (think positive).
- Know your CV. Plan what might be asked in the interview beforehand, e.g. personal details, education, career history, and experience. The interviewer will be aiming to match candidates against the job description and person specification so re-read your CV again thoroughly before the call.
- Answer with confidence. Even the way you answer the phone has an impact on the person calling. Talk distinctly and clearly. If you're not confident in your speaking voice, you cannot compensate for it in other ways (your 'interview suit' won't help you here!).
- Make a connection. Try to establish something in common. Ask about the caller's experience with the company or mention something you've read about the company.
- Let silence be golden. Watch out for awkward silences, 'umms' and 'errrs', and unintentional interruptions - by either you or the interviewer. If you need a minute to compose your thoughts, don't be afraid to ask for a little time before answering (not more than a few seconds though).
- A two-way process. You should be given the opportunity to ask questions. Make sure you have prepared one or two in advance (what do you need to know that might rule the job out for you?)
- End on a positive note. Thank the caller for their time and express interest in the opportunity (a good touch is to send an e-mail, reinforcing this). Don't be afraid to ask what the next stage is. Be positive and leave a good impression - after all, you want this job, don't you?
