Phone interviews are becoming more common lately, and if most of your experience has been with in-person interviews, you may find it more challenging to prepare for an interview over the phone. But the great news is that you just need a few things for a successful phone interview, and they’re all easy to acquire. You’ll need…
1. A quiet room. Ambient noise is much more distracting in a phone interview than in a traditional one. Make sure that your area is clear of noisy distractions. If possible, arrange to have your interview on a landline as there’s a greater chance that you’ll have a secure connection. You may also want a glass of water handy in case you get a tickle in your throat.
2. A copy of your resume. Make sure that you have a copy of your submitted resume and cover letter so that you can refer to it as necessary. Consider jotting down some key points about why you think you’re a great fit so that you have something to say if you momentarily draw a blank.
3. A pen and paper. Some people find it hard to focus on voices when there’s no accompanying visual, and one of the best ways to combat this is by taking notes. Writing down questions and concerns will help you follow the conversational thread better and give you a way to make sure that everything is addressed before you hang up.
4. A professional appearance. You may feel that because you can’t be seen, you can get away with rolling out of bed and talking in your pajamas, but resist the urge. Dressing up professionally will build your confidence and put you in the right mindset to interview. Don’t forget to smile, either. It can really help!
Looking for more help with preparing for an interview? Get in touch with Burnett’s Staffing and we’ll set you up with your very own recruiting expert who can help you power through your job search. Contact us today!