4 Tips for Succeeding in a Phone Interview

Nowadays, a lot of companies screen job applicants through phone interviews. These interviews are usually short and last from 10 to 30 minutes. The goal of a phone interview is to determine if the applicant is a good fit for the company and the specific role. So, it is important to take a phone interview as seriously as you would take an in-person interview. Following are four tips to keep in mind before attending a phone interview.

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Be prepared

You must be prepared before attending a phone interview as you would be for an in-person interview. The phone screening is what will decide if you qualify for the in-person round, so it is especially important that you make a good first impression. Here are a few things you can do to be prepared:

• Schedule the call at a time when you will have enough time for it and be punctual.
• Do your research beforehand, and take advantage of the fact that the interviewer cannot see you by making notes and keeping them with you. You can also have the company’s website open so you can refer to it if needed.
• Keep a copy of your resume with you for reference.
• Dress for the interview. It may sound odd, but it puts you in the right state of mind and you will feel more confident.

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Be attentive and positive

?It is important that you pay attention to what the interviewer is saying or asking and respond to them accordingly. Being in a distraction-free space and using earphones if you can to further filter out any noises that might come up helps you do this. It is also important to pay attention to your body language and smile when you’re on the call.

Even though it might seem odd, people can hear your enthusiasm if you’re smiling while talking. Using similar body language as you would in an in-person interview helps, too. For example, you should sit straight or lean in when required like you would in the office.

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Be yourself

When you present yourself authentically, it leaves a more positive impression in the interviewer’s mind, and you are more likely to be called for the next round. While it’s a good practice to mirror the interviewer’s tone and approach, make sure you’re not presenting yourself as someone you’re not. It’s easy to be dishonest when you’re trying to show your best side to the interviewer. So look out for this and always respond truthfully and naturally.

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Ask intelligent and insightful questions

Towards the end of the interview, the interviewer is likely to ask you if you have any questions for them. At this point, you can ask them intelligent questions regarding the job role you’re being interviewed for or the company’s strategies for growth. Ask questions that tell the employer that you are serious about the job. You can also ask them about the next steps in the hiring process if they haven’t volunteered that information.?

Avoid asking questions about the salary or vacation time at this point since it’s only the initial interview. Chances are, you might already have an idea about the salary if you have gone through the job description and the company website. So, asking about this might make it seem like you’re only interested in the job for the perks it has to offer rather than the job itself.