Are you looking for some phone interview tips to increase the chance of securing a second interview, probably an in-person formal meeting? Even though a phone interview may seem more comfortable than a regular discussion on the surface, it can be a bit harder.
A phone interview can happen when you least expect it, or it can be scheduled. Make sure you have your resume and cover letter beside your phone. Project your personality without having the advantage of face-to-face contact. You must rely solely on your voice to make a connection with your interviewer.
Phone Interview Tips to Land a Formal Interview
1. Eliminate ALL distractions.
Find a quiet place away from people, TV, pets, etc. Get a sitter for your dog during your interview to ensure you are not interrupted by barking. Remaining 100% focused on your job interview is critical. Turn off your “call waiting” if you can; you don’t want to get a beep in the middle of your conversation.
Eliminating all distractions is one of the most critical phone interview tips to follow. If you are distracted during the interview, you will lose your concentration and confidence.
2. Make a Conscious Effort to be Energetic and Smile While Speaking
Allow your voice to convey enthusiasm and warmth, helping you come across as friendly and approachable. Smiling while you speak not only boosts your energy but also makes a positive impression. This small gesture can put both you and the interviewer at ease, creating a more relaxed environment. By projecting an upbeat (but don’t over do it) and outgoing personality, you’ll show that you’re a person who brings positivity to the workplace and thrives in collaborative settings. Enthusiasm is contagious and can leave a lasting impression that sets you apart from other candidates.
3. Provide Unique, Relevant Answers to Each Interview Question
Usually, you will ask a set of scripted questions in a phone interview and tailor your response to what the company seeks from a person in the position. Communicate how your skills and professional experiences will benefit the position. Researching the company in depth will help you find out as much about it as possible.
4. Make a Personal Connection with the Interviewer
Over the phone, this may seem challenging, but it’s necessary to make a lasting impression. You are trying to market yourself to the company’s hiring representatives. With this in mind, try to talk about how your skill set, unique selling point, past success, and personality will fit into the company’s goals and culture.
Try to shift the interview from a typical question-and-answer format to a more open, collaborative discussion. In this type of meeting, you’ll talk about the organization’s current situation and explore how you can contribute to improving it.
5. Leave the Phone Interview with an Open Invitation to Continue Talking
Express your interest in the position and ask what the next step is in the hiring process. Let the interviewer know you would enjoy continuing the conversation to learn more about the position and the company. This way, they can get to know you better and learn about the value you could bring to the position and their company culture.
If you follow these phone interview steps, you will successfully set yourself apart from the other prospective candidates.
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