When you’re trying to find a new job, you will probably have to do a phone interview. A phone interview, or phone screen, is used by most companies as the first hurdle. This narrows the list of potential candidates for a face-to-face interview.
Some generic questions you might be asked:
- Why are you looking to leave your current position?
- What are you looking for in your next position?
- Tell me about yourself?
- Why are you applying for this position?
- What are you passionate about?
- Do you have any questions?
- When are you free for the next interview?
How to Start and Answer a Phone Interview
Answer the phone in a positive and upbeat voice. Answer by stating your full name so the interview knows.
Just like any interview, you need to do your research before you speak with the interviewer. Read everything you can about the company and the interviewer. You can expect to be asked what you know about the company, so have a response ready.
The greatest thing about a phone interview is you can keep your notes in front of you. Jot down some key points about the company that you want to call out in your interview. Prepare a list of responses to popular interview questions and highlight your key accomplishments to showcase during the call.
You also need to prepare some questions for the interviewer. Make sure your questions relate to the position and demonstrate that you are perfect for the opening. Keep that list in front of you, so you’re ready when the interviewer asks.
Check Your Surroundings
Make sure you choose a quiet location for your phone interview where you won’t be distracted, away from your children or pets who can create background noise. Have a notepad in front of you to take notes along the way to avoid typing on your keyboard.
How to End a Phone Interview
The way you end the phone interview will set the stage for the next interview, so make sure you end on a high note. Thank the interviewer for their time and ask them for the next steps or a timeline.
Ask for the interviewers email
Then follow up after the interview, not immediately but a few hours later, to thank them again for their time, recap any high points of the discussion and restate your enthusiasm about taking the interview process to the next step.
