So, you have secured yourself a telephone interview. Believe it or not, an interview over the phone is just as important as a face to face one, and you will have to work just as hard (if not harder) to impress the interviewer. Although many people realise the importance of properly preparing for an ‘in person’ interview, very often they neglect to place the same importance on those conducted over the phone. This is the first of a number of mistakes potential employees make and it can really put them at a disadvantage in the face of strong competition.
So what can you do to ensure you make a good impression in a telephone interview?
1. Accessibility & Location
Make certain that you are in a position to properly take the call. This includes ensuring that you have a full phone battery, good signal and that you are in a quiet location, completely free from any background noise or distractions. Never think it will be fine just to take yourself off to the corner of a room. Take the time to prepare a proper space on your own and to make sure you are not in the middle of an activity when the call comes through.
2. Voicemail
Evaluate your voicemail message. Would you feel happy for a potential employer to hear it? As fun as they may be, joke voicemail can potentially harm your chances of securing employment as they can make you appear unprofessional. Instead, ensure your message is a serious one – clear, concise and to the point.
3. Clarity & Focus
When the telephone interview is taking place, don’t forget to speak in a clear, even tone. Keep your answers concise and listen carefully to what the interviewer is asking you. It can be more difficult to remain focussed when interviewing over the phone, so make the extra effort required to ensure you do.
4. Enthusiasm
Think about how you would use body language to communicate your enthusiasm in a face to face interview. It is important to do the same over the phone. Even though the interviewer cannot see you, they can detect subtle changes in your voice. If you are smiling they will be able to hear this in the way you are speaking. A bright, interested and expressive tone is essential.
5. Research & Preparation
Regardless as to how the interview is to be conducted, it is important to carry out proper research beforehand. This includes finding out about the company you are hoping to work for, thinking about what strengths you can bring to the role and why you are interested in the position.
6. Interview Documents
Ensure you have all relevant information to hand when the telephone interview takes place. This is likely to include details of job specifications, your CV and any other information which can guide you in your answers. It is also a good idea to have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer, to show them you have really thought about the role.
7. Confirm a face to face
Finally, if you are still keen, finish the telephone interview by enquiring about a meeting face to face. This will tell the interviewer that you are still interested in the role and are will to be proactive about securing it.
At Eligo Recruitment we offer a personal, consultative recruitment service, happy to advise on interview techniques and how you can secure your next dream job. We listen to you and provide specialist advice to help match you to the right job opportunities. Our areas of recruitment expertise are the following industries: Fire & Security, Technology, ERP, Medical, Digital Marketing and Events. We have jobs and candidates of all levels across Permanent, Contract and Temporary.