How to Ace a Phone Interview

Preparation and Professionalism Are Keys to Success

by Sarra Jackson

Many companies have started to conduct phone interviews in order to minimize the number of candidates they have to interview in person. Some candidates may think that this is an easy step and they can slack off, but don’t fool yourself. With the U.S. unemployment rate as high as it is there could be 20 to 30 people getting interviewed for a single position. Professionalism and organization are important for phone interviews and can help you get to the next round.

Being prepared for a phone interview is your first step to success. Research information on the company and find out who you will be speaking to over the phone. Think about how you can pitch yourself to the interviewer. You need to explain why you are the perfect candidate for the position. To prepare, try typing out answers on the computer and other notes you may have, such as questions you want to ask, that you can reference throughout the interview.

Don’t forget to dress up for the interview. Yes, the person who is interviewing your outfit, but how you dress can impact how you feel and portray yourself. It can be tempting to just stay in your pajamas, but it’s hard to act very professional when you’re dressed for bed.

Stay in a room that is quiet and private. Crying babies and barking dogs are not sounds you want to interrupt the conversation during your interview. Keep your pets out of the room and arrange for somebody to watch your kids so you only have to concentrate on the interview.

Use the right technology when on the phone. Don’t use a cell phone since they don’t always have the best service and can drop the call. If you can, disable call waiting so you aren’t distracted by incoming calls.

Smile when you talk. This may seem silly but people can hear a smile in your voice. You don’t want to sound as if you have just crawled out of bed for the interview. Sit up straight or even walk around the room if that’s how you feel most comfortable.

Practice with a friend by conducting a mock interview. Practice sitting down and standing up to see which way makes you sound clearer and more professional.  The interviewer isn’t going to want to spend time determining which phone sounds best so sorting it out beforehand.

Treating a phone interview as if you were going in person is something to keep in mind when getting ready. This first interview can help employers determine if you’re a good fit for the company so you don’t waste more of your time and the company’s if you aren’t.  Have questions prepared and remember to listen to the interviewer so you give an answer that pertains to their question instead of ramble on about something else. Always remember that eloquence is not a prerequisite, but it sure help when you want a successful phone interview.