Phone Interviews: Piece of cake right???
For some students, phone interviews can initially seem to be a load off your shoulders if you are worried about what nervous habits you might display during an in-person interview. Twiddling your thumbs or staring off into space is something that you definitely don’t have to worry about. However, a phone interview carries the same weight as an in-person interview and all of the same “rules” apply. You still should spend time preparing for the phone interview ahead of time and be ready to provide specific examples of HOW and WHY you are qualified for the position. Remember, the sound of your voice is also very important. I remember when my co-worker and I conducted a phone interview for the first round screening for new peer advisor applicants. This person sounded very unenthusiastic, like they had just rolled out of bed. Their lack of excitement and professionalism gave us the impression that they did not have much interest in the job.
In order to be successful in a phone interview, one must be aware of how they are sounding to the other person. Here are a few tips to help you ace the phone interview!
1) Make sure you are awake, prepared, and focused for the phone interview. Schedule the talk for a time when you will be free of interruptions.
2) Be sure to use a land line because cell phone service can be spotty – and it would be very unprofessional to have a dropped call during an interview!
3) It can help to dress in business or business casual attire to help you get into a professional mode.
4) Stand up straight to maintain a good posture so that it will reflect in your voice. Also be sure to smile as you talk!
5) Have copies of your resume and the job description in
front of you.
Just like an in-person interview, you want to leave them with a good impression of you and your abilities and talents. Be smart! Be enthused! And Prepare! Follow these tips and you will have a better shot of making a great first impression that will help you nail that phone interview! Also check out these tips from the Career Center website: CLICK HERE
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