Telephone Interview Guide lines

Interview Guidelines

Telephone Interview Preparation

In preparing for your phone interview, there are several things you can do.

• Tape your resume to a wall in view of the phone. It will be there for the call and will be a constant reminder for your job search.
• Keep all of your employer research materials within easy reach of the phone.
• Have a notepad handy to take notes.

If the phone interview will occur at a set time, there are additional steps you can take:

• Place a "Do Not Disturb" note on your door.
• Turn off your stereo, TV, and any other potential distraction.
• Warm up your voice while waiting for the call. Sing an uplifting song to yourself.
• Have a glass of water handy, since you will not have a chance to take a break during the call.
• Speaking of breaks, if your phone interview is at a set time, make sure you answer nature's call first.
• Turn off call waiting on your phone.

Here is a simple technique to increase the enthusiasm and positive image that you project over the telephone: stand up. Whenever you are talking with a potential employer on the phone, stand up. It gets your blood flowing, improves your posture, and improves your response time. So apply this same technique to improve your telephone presence.

In prep for a telephone interview make sure that you have a mirror within view. Why? Because I want you to look into that mirror consistently throughout the phone call. And smile. You will improve your telephone presence 110 percent just by using this simple technique. You will find yourself coming across much friendlier, more interested, and more alert.

Take the time to warm up your voice on the way to the interview. Turn on a radio station you enjoy and sing along. Top of your lungs is just fine.

During the Phone Interview

• Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
• Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
• Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
• Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
• Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
• Don't interrupt the interviewer.
• Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
• Give short answers.

After the Interview:

• Take notes about what you were asked and how you answered.
• Remember to say "thank you." Follow with a Thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job.