Tips for a Great Phone Interview

Your first phone call with a hiring practice is very important.  As the old saying goes, "You never get a second chance to make a first impression."  Many of our clients use a phone interview to decide which candidates they would like to take the time to meet with in person.  To help you put your best foot forward here are a few tips:

Be Prepared to Interview 

• Have your résumé nearby so it is easily accessible when a practice calls.
• Make a short list of your accomplishments available to review. 
• Have a pen and paper handy for note taking. 
• Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted. 
• If the time isn't convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives. 
• Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door. 
• Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

During the Phone Interview 

• Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
• Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth. 
• Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice. 
• Speak slowly and enunciate clearly. 
• Refrain from using slang. 
• Use the person's title (Dr., Mr., or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to. 
• Don't interrupt the interviewer. 
• Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts. 
• Give short answers. 

The goal of a phone interview is to set-up a face-to-face interview. At the end of the call, thank the interviewer, and ask if it would be possible to meet in person.  

Posted by Chante Smith, Recruiter with ETS Vision. You can reach Chante at (540) 491-9105 or csmith@etsvision.com. Check us out at www.etsvision.com.