Don’t use a can and a string.
Don’t use a can and a string. Can a phone interview set the tone for the rest of your candidate experience?
Absolutely, remember the adage “First impressions are lasting impressions”. This is the one and only time to make that first impression. Take it seriously and set yourself up for success.
Do’s:
- Take the call on a land line if possible. Make sure you will not be disturbed. If a land line is impossible to use, make sure your phone is fully charged and you can get a strong signal. Walking around or driving when you are having this first conversation could be distracting so be stationary and focused.
- Make a list of the topics you wish to cover so you stay on track and understand exactly what the opportunity is and what you bring to the table to add value within a given organization.
- Thank the interviewer for their time and consideration of you as a candidate for the role you are discussing with them. Inform them of the best way to communicate with you, and time of day. Most importantly ask what the next step in the process is and if you can do anything to prepare for it.
Don’t:
- Be late or miss the call. If something comes up take the call and ask if you can postpone or reschedule because something needs your immediate attention and give some alternative times. It would be best if you had the interviewer’s contact information to let them know as soon as possible that you are unable to make your appointment.
- Assume that this conversation is a job offer. It might seem like a long process to finally get to speak to a person but a phone interview is just that, an opportunity for both parties to understand if you would be a good fit within the organization.
- Take another call when you are on the call with the interview, eat, smoke, or place your drive threw order. (these things have really happened to me) Be your best and all will be well.
Global Director of Talent Acquisition
6 年I am going to share this all the time, such great reminders!?
Believer | Cybersecurity | SASE | Woman in Technology | Health Nut
6 年I appreciate making the point to finding a quiet place to take the call. I can't tell you how many times I hear road noise and think how focused can he or she be.
Director of People Operations @ Gutterglove | SPHR, Certified Dream Manager
6 年Seems so simple, but how many times are we doing a phone interview and all I hear is driving noise??? Makes me wonder how they'll commit to being an awesome employee if they can't even take the time to pull over and find a quiet place to take the call.? How important is the job to them?
Sr. Technical Recruiter at Navy Federal Credit Union
6 年And really, you don't want a company to offer you a job over the phone-- right??? I'd rather work for one that takes time to check whether candidates have the right skills for the job (like ESI or RK Dixon).?
Executive Sales Recruiter | Forbes Top Ranked Recruiting Firms 2022, 2023, & 2024 | #SalesRecruiter
6 年I really appreciate the point about NOT assuming that this conversation is a job offer. Most interview processes can be seen as a series of baby steps.