Tackling a Phone Interview

TACKLING THE PHONE INTERVIEW

A pre-interview telephone assessment is becoming an increasingly common tool used by Human Resource Departments around the world.

It is essential to ensure your phone interview is a pre booked appointment and not an impromptu telephone call. If the phone call is taken and you are not ready, explain that you are not in a position to talk, take their name and number and call them back at a time that suits you. This will not be considered rude and will not jeopardise your chance of success. The phone interview is your first step in getting that dream job; it must be treated seriously and not dismissed as just a friendly chat with someone from the recruitment office. Remember to remain professional even if they don’t.

TIPS

• Make an appointment for the phone interview ensuring you can take the call at a time that will allow you not to be distracted and you are in a quiet location.
• Remain professional, remember this is an interview.
• Refer to your notes but don’t read from them.
• Stay upbeat, positive and passionate.

The interview will last for 10-15 minutes. There are several questions that must be asked and this will allow you to prepare in advance.

Whilst preparing write your answers in point form. During the interview this will allow you to refer to your notes ensuring you keep your answers fresh, natural and unscripted.

QUESTIONS

• Tell me about your career to date?
• Why do you want to work for us?
• What do you have to offer us?
• What remuneration are you expecting?
• When are you available to start?

For more information and tips on how to structure your answers refer to our website www.jobinterview-solutions.com/products. Included in the online program is a detailed booklet that will fully prepare you for your phone interview.

Sasha

Job Interview Solutions