Phone Interviews: Here Are The Tips To Get You To The Next Round!
What is a phone interview and what role does it play in the hiring process?
Many companies use phone calls with candidates who look good on paper to determine if those applicants are ready to move to longer, face-to-face interviews. This is sometimes called a phone screen. During this call, you’ll typically speak with a recruiter rather than the hiring manager. This is a critically important part of your job search. If all goes well, the recruiter will move you onto the next stage. But if they come away with a poor or incomplete impression of you, things are unlikely to progress.
Because this conversation usually lasts 30 minutes or less, consider a phone interview your opportunity to sum up what’s most attractive to you about the job and the company, as well as the skills and qualifications you bring to the table.
We review some of the top phone interview tips to help you get to the next round of interviews!
1. Keep your job search organised
If you're applying for several jobs, it can be hard to keep track of which company you're talking with.
Utilise job search apps and platforms with tracking features to streamline the process, and organise your email communication with dedicated folders and response templates. Set regular check-ins with reminders to follow up on applications, prioritise your efforts based on your interests, and maintain an active networking list.
There are several ways to stay organised and you should choose the approach that works best for you.
Reflect on your strategies periodically to adapt and improve your approach, ensuring a focused and efficient job search.
2. Write down or highlight skills the job description calls for
Highlight the key skills mentioned in the job description. This will help you identify phrases and terms you can incorporate into your responses. For example, if you were applying for a Buyer position, you might say:
"Throughout my career, I have developed strong buying skills, particularly in supplier negotiation, inventory management, and trend forecasting. In my current role, I consistently analyze sales data, market trends, and customer preferences to make informed buying decisions that optimize stock levels and drive profitability."
Remember, this will be a brief interview, so practice keeping your answers concise and focused..
3. Prepare answers to the following common questions
What are you looking for in your next job?
What are your salary expectations?
What are you looking for in terms of company culture and benefits?
If you were offered this job, when would you be able to start?
What is your availability for an in-person interview in the next few days?
If the job is out of state: Are you willing to relocate?
Why are you looking to leave your current company or make a career change?
4. Research the company and prepare thoughtful questions
If you're communicating with a recruiter prior to your interview, it's a great opportunity to ask questions that not only help you prepare but also assess if the company and role are the right fit for you.
Sample questions include:
Is there anything else I should bring to the interview in addition to my resume?
How many people will I be meeting with, and could you share their names and titles?
Tips for DURING a phone interview
Dress in a way that makes you feel prepared and professional, even if you're at home.
Choose a quiet, distraction-free location with good phone reception.
Keep essentials like a pen, paper, your resume, and the job description close by.
Lastly, don't be afraid to take a moment to gather your thoughts before responding to questions; a brief pause is completely acceptable.
Phone interviews are more than just a preliminary step; they are your chance to make a strong first impression. By staying organized, preparing concise answers, and doing your homework on the company, you can confidently navigate these calls and increase your chances of advancing to the next stage.
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