4 Tips for Better Phone Interviews

Ah the job hunt, such a mystical realm of uncertainty and fear. You take the classes, score the internships, design a killer resume, post it online and buy that ever so precious suit. So tell me why, in my very first official interview as a (soon to be) college grad I wore jeans and a sweatshirt? Welcome friends to the wonderful world of the phone interview.

Having just tackled my first experience at phone interviewing yesterday afternoon, I feel I’m more than qualified to give expert advice on the subject (sarcasm noted). So here’s my list of some helpful phone interview tips:

1. Make a cheat sheet. A list of accomplishments and notes about the company or organization will come in super handy. Not only will it allow for better answers on your part, but it will also help calm your nerves and give you a boost of confidence. Being prepared with a hard copy of your resume and the job description is another great idea to help connect talking points in dialogue with your interviewer.

2. Listen. Yes the point of the interview is so your prospective employer can learn more about you and the only way to do that is talk — but knowing when to do so is the mark of a pro interviewee. People love to talk about themselves, so let them do it. You’ll be able to learn more about the company and its employees, while setting a proper pace for the interview. Just don’t listen too hard and forget to speak…communication is a two-way street.

3. Take a pause before answering a question. A lot of times people can be quick to jump into an answer, especially if they have an entire spiel prepared on a cheat sheet — don’t let this happen to you. After each question, take a moment, breathe and think about what you want to say, then you can proceed accordingly.

4. Smile. Your demeanor definitely shows in your voice. Relax and show those pearly whites, you’ll sound more secure and it will put both of you at ease.

Regardless of these tips, the number one piece of advice I can give is just be you. If you’re not comfortable your interviewer won’t be either. Chill out. Recognize that you’ve grabbed their attention by simply being offered the interview, so you must be doing something right.

-Marilyn