Phone Interviews
- Many employers will call for an initial screening interview first. If they want to talk right then and you have a few minutes, go ahead and take the call. If you are in a loud or distracting location or don't have the time, ask the interviewer if you can return their call at a time convenient for them.
- To be prepared for this:
- Make sure any other people answering your phone (roommates, family members, etc.) know how to take down phone messages appropriately.
- Be sure your answering machine or voicemail message is professional and easy to understand.
- An acceptable outgoing voicemail message: "Hi, this is Jane Smith. I'm sorry I cannot come to the phone right now, but if you'll leave your name, number and the best time to reach you, I'll return your call as soon as possible. Thank you very much."
- If you know ahead of time about the interview:
- Prepare for the interview just as you would an in-person interview (see "Before the Interview" and "During the Interview"
- Be especially aware of the correct time if you are having a phone interview with someone in a different time zone.
- Go to a location where you won't be bothered. Eliminate any distractions.
- Some people find that wearing business attire can make them feel more professional while on the phone; others feel more at ease when they are in traditional clothes. Choose whichever makes you feel prepared and ready.
- Stand up and walk around while talking during the interview; kick a ball; remaining active will make you less nervous and keeps you from rambling.
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