How to Succeed in a Phone Interview

Phone interviews are common in L&D consulting, especially when companies have an urgent need to hire consultants or the opportunity is virtual.

When recruiters initially contact you to speak about a consulting opportunity, they are essentially prescreening you and getting to know you and your capabilities.  As with any interview, the phone interview is an opportunity to sell yourself and your skill set.  Treat it as a professional interview and not a casual conversation. 

If the recruiter has contacted you about a specific job opportunity, ask about the skills required and the scope of the project so that you speak about your background as it relates to the job.  If it turns out that the opportunity is not a match, wrap up the call with an overview of your skills and experience.  Establish a positive working relationship with the recruiter so that he/she may call you for future consulting opportunities.

A first impression can be a lasting impression and the goal is to get invited for an in-person interview, or in some cases, land the project on the spot.  The phone interview allows you and the company to find out if the opportunity is a match for both parties.

Take the following steps to ensure a successful phone interview:

Choose the best phone number

Because you may list several phone numbers on your resume, make sure to confirm which phone number the interviewer should use to call you for the phone interview. 

It is common these days to conduct phone interviews on cell phones.  However, cell phones may not provide the best connection because of bad coverage, low batteries or the unavoidable beeping of incoming calls.  If possible, choose a landline number where you can eliminate any possibilities of lost or bad connections.

Try to keep your phone number available 10 minutes before the scheduled interview.  On some occasions, the interviewer may be running late, so leave your phone line available for 10 minutes after the scheduled time.  If you still have not received a call, contact your Staffing Specialist immediately so that he/she can attempt to contact the interviewer to reschedule.  Once you begin your phone interview, confirm that they can hear you and you can hear them.

Choose your surroundings

Choosing the appropriate surroundings to conduct the phone interview in is integral to communicate at your best during the phone interview.  Not only should you choose a private area with zero interruptions, but you should also choose a place where you can freely express yourself non-verbally.  You should be able to use hand gestures and be able to move about.

The person conducting the phone interview obviously cannot read your facial expressions or body language; so remember to smile, as it will make you sound upbeat and positive.  Keep in mind that your end goal is to get invited for an in-person interview or to land the opportunity.

Speak Professionally

Treat the phone interview as you would treat an in-person interview.  Speak clearly and professionally.  When speaking with the interviewer, refer to them as Mister or Ms. and not by their first name, unless otherwise directed.

Speak slowly and take your time when answering questions.  Respond to questions with concise answers.  If you do not know the answer to a question, admit it and indicate how you would go about finding the answer.  This looks better than making up an answer and the interviewer will usually respect your honesty.  For future reference, it is a good idea to take notes about the types of questions asked and how you responded .

Close with Questions

It is smart to end the interview on a strong note by asking questions pertinent to the position.  It is also wise to reiterate your interest in the position and the company.  By asking thoughtful questions, you will demonstrate that you researched the company and that you are interested in it. 

The end of the interview is an appropriate time to determine possible next steps in the interview process.  Conclude the conversation by conveying your sincere interest in the position and by thanking the interviewer for the chance to speak regarding the opportunity.

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