If you’re like most people applying for a new job you are well aware that companies typically do not have the time to meet each candidate who applies to their role (whether it is a Senior Project Manager or a Junior .NET Developer) in a face to face setting. Thus, you may be set up with a phone interview first.
Do not fear though, Aquinas has compiled a guide to get you to the next step of the interview process and your face in front of the hiring manager in addition to just your voice.
Preparation for the Phone Interview
Be sure to get the name of your interviewer(s) prior to the call from your recruiter. Once you have the name, be sure to do a LinkedIn/Google search on the person. This will allow you to better visualize them while speaking and gain an understanding of their background.
Research the company online as far in advance as possible. Most companies’ websites will have an “About Us” description at the very least, but also provide some information on the people at the top. Do your research on the company history, the products they specialize in, and any of the latest news that is relevant to them.
Be sure to have a printed copy of your resume as well as a pen and paper with you during the call. Note the date and time of your interview, the name and title of your interviewer(s), and the proper name of the company. It also is a good idea to keep a glass of water handy to rescue a dry mouth.
Conveying Success Stories
Before the interview, write down a few examples of success stories from your career that demonstrate how you successfully applied your skills in real world situations. Be sure to detail specific benefits that accrued to your employer as a result of your actions.
Communicating Effectively
Solid communication during the phone interview is imperative. It may seem like common sense (and it is), but make a conscious effort to:
- Take the call in a quiet, calm area where you can hear the interviewer and the interviewer can hear you.
- Do not use speaker phone.
- Speak slowly, clearly and definitively.
- Understand and respond specifically to your interviewer’s questions.
- Do not smoke, eat, or chew gum during the call.
- Remember to smile even though the other person cannot see you — believe it or not, this may help calm your nerves
- Many people talk too much when they are nervous. This is especially easy to do in a phone interview because of the lack of visual feedback. Keep answers brief and to the point.
- Don’t be afraid of a moment of silence — properly timed momentary pauses can let the hiring manager know that you have completed your answer.
Concluding the Interview on a Positive Note
You want to leave the hiring manager with the impression that you are excited about the job. Let him or her know how enthusiastic you are about the prospect of working with the company.
Verbally thank your interviewer. In addition, send a follow-up note to your Recruiter at Aquinas so we can email it to the interviewer on your behalf. Be sure to send this thank you within one day of the interview to demonstrate your seriousness about the position.
Last Thing!
Ask for the job. Always end the interview on a positive note. Tell the client, “I’m very excited about the career opportunity at ABC Corporation and I hope to have the opportunity to work with you.”
By: Mike M.
