Terrific Phone Interview Tips

COVID-19 has transformed the way that recruitment is handled with phone interviews preferred by many organisations for first-round screening rather than face to face. It saves time at the initial stages of the process and allows an employer to quickly get a feel for an applicant, and the candidate to learn more about the role.

Since a phone call will likely be your first chance to make a killer impression, you have to take it seriously and do the prep work.

Here are some phone interview tips to help you get started:

1. Master the basics

Don’t start an interview in person or via phone or video without doing some preparation. Consult guides for interview basics prior to jumping on a call, here’s one I’ve written earlier.

Being on the phone means you have the opportunity to have your resume in front of you to avoid any nerve-induced stumbling over your history. You should have thorough knowledge of your potential employer and an elevator pitch for why you’re a great fit. Most importantly, make a connection.

Feel free to engage in genuine small talk before you get down to the nitty gritty. They will be thinking about you meeting clients, so small talk and soft skills are important.

2. Dress for success

The way you dress affects the way you hold yourself. Clothing choice can make a difference in how we’re perceived and, just as importantly, in how we perceive ourselves.

Does that mean busting out a business suit for a phone interview? Probably not, but changing out of loungewear for something smarter isn’t a bad idea.

3. Set the scene

You need a quiet, distraction-free space for a phone interview. That may mean putting your dog in the garden for a while or organising childcare. Close your windows and listen for unexpected noises and irritations before the call starts. Calling from a landline minimises the chances of echoes, bad reception and the dreaded dropped call.

4. Mind your voice

Since your interviewer won’t be able to see you, pay particular attention to your voice. Speak clearly, take your time and don’t forget to smile – facial expressions can be detected in the tone of your voice! It’s appropriate to completely answer a question but be sure not to ramble. Be enthusiastic but genuine; your verbal cues tell the interviewer how interested you are in the position.

You’re also more likely to focus during a phone interview if you stand up. Being upright opens your diaphragm, making your voice project and helping your breathing remain steady.

5. End on a high note

Gratitude is appreciated. At the call’s end, thank the interviewer for his or her time. Reiterate your desire to pursue the position, and make it clear that you’re looking forward to the next step.

Lawson Delaney is a leading executive search and professional recruitment firm based in Melbourne. We specialise in recruiting CEOs and leadership teams, and accountants of all seniorities for Accounting firms. Contact us on 03 9946 7300 or support@lawsondelaney.com.au to learn more about how we can assist you with a vacancy or new role today.