Steps to nail a telephone interview

More and more companies are turning to telephone interviews to screen candidates, reduce costs and narrow the pool of applicants for face-to-face interviews.

You might think that the best thing about a telephone interview is that, like a radio presenter, you don't have to worry about how you look.

But, an interview is still an interview. You need to be as prepared and well presented as you would be for a face-to-face interview.

* Prepare well - do your research well. Find out everything you need to know - and more - about the Company. Write a list of questions like "What specific qualities and skills are you looking for in a candidate?" or "How do you see this position contributing to the continued success of your Company?". This will demonstrate your interest in the Organisation and the position. It will also display you are a highly qualified applicant. Phone interviews are a great opportunity to find out more details about the role, the Company, the work environment and the team since job descriptions can be vague. Think about the answers you might give to their questions, particularly with regard to competency based questions. 

* Be organised - If you're not able to make some quiet time when they call then set a time for the interview to take place. You have to be organised because it's on your home turf. Make sure you won't be interrupted and be sure to charge your phone in advance. Keep a copy of your resume by the phone and all other relevant information your might need. Think of using a headset. It will make it easier to take notes and you will be able to concentrate on the conversation rather than on balancing the phone between your shoulder and ear while you search for a pen. Compose yourself in advance. If you sound confused and disorganised you might not get a second chance.

* Smile - Smile when you talk on the phone. You'll be more relaxed, you will sound confident and assertive. Place a mirror by the phone and look at it smiling while speaking on the phone. You will find you sound more upbeat and engaged when you do this. Your smiles will be "heard" by the interviewer making for a positive impressions.

* Use your LinkedIn profile - Suggest the interviewer visit your LinkedIn profile. The URL should  be on your resume. Have him/her click on your project highlights page. This enables the interviewer to see your value while you talk about it.

* Focus on your language and voice - You can only go on the power of your voice in a telephone call. Speak clearly, stay upbeat and use positive language. Don't criticise anyone. Modulate your own tone and word choice to make a positive impression.

* Avoid selfish questions - Now is not the time to ask about benefits or salary. Initial interviews, until you have an offer, are about marketing yourself to the employer. You do not have the power until the offer arrives. It will show your emphasise is not on being a good fit but just on what is in it for you.

* Ask for next step and contact number - When the interviewer is wrapping up but there has been no mention of the next step, speak up! Express your enthusiasm for moving forward and ask about the next step. If a face-to-face interview is not scheduled at the end of the call, find out when you can follow up. Be sure to ask for contact information - name, phone number and email address - of the person who will be your contact.

* Say thank you in writing - Even though it was a telephone interview, take time to exercise simple but powerful courtesies. Write a thank you letter and mail it, unless your main communication has been via email. Don't just say thank you but make a point of reiterating strengths and value for the position.   

Lastly, remember do not leave your interview to chance - prepare now for success!