It’s Still an Interview

Is anything the way it used to be – re: job search? Not much it seems.

Virtually unheard of 25 years ago, today the phone interview is as ubiquitous as the cell phones that they’re conducted on. If you’ve never endured a phone interview, there are a few things that you might want to keep in mind.

Be smarter than your phone

First of all, although it’s over the phone, you need to treat this as seriously as any other interview. It’s still a job interview and it’s very likely that the employer is doing this to look for ways to eliminate candidates before the actual face-to-face (or video) interviewing begins.

Since it is job interview, you must prepare as you would for any other interview. Learn as much as you can about the company and prepare some questions to stimulate the conversation. Likewise, be prepared to answer some basic job interview questions such as what is your availability; can you relocate; salary requirements; etc.

Despite the fact that the interviewer can’t see you (for now), there is still a lot they can learn about you. The first – and perhaps most obvious – is that the tone of your voice says a lot about you making it a top priority. A dull, drone, monotonous voice will turn anyone off. Even though they can’t see it, if you smile during the interview that comes across in your voice. Act – and sound – like you want to be there.

General phone etiquette also applies. Just as you wouldn’t slouch in a chair during an in-person interview, don’t mumble over the phone. Speak clearly and slowly.

Of course, since audio is your only medium (on this particular occasion) center the interviewer’s attention on you, your voice and what you have to say. Since most phone interviews are scheduled, construct your presence to your advantage. Go to a quiet room away from pets, kids and noisy appliances. Background noise is not only a distraction, it may muffle what you’re actually saying. A lack of distractions can also help keep the conversation focused on the task at hand.

Just as you would for an in-person (or video) interview, check out the LinkedIn profile of your interviewer. You might also want to send that person a LinkedIn and/or email message confirming your meeting.

In total, while there are some peculiarities, it’s still a job interview just like any other and needs to be treated as such.

More tips.