How To Crack A Phone Interview

Telephonic interview

Telephone interviews make you nervous?

Relax, they can’t see how nervous you are.
Also, you don’t have to get that crumpled shirt of your ironed.

In short, a telephone interview is far easier than a “conventional” job interview.
But it’s a totally different ball game. And unlike the conventional interviews, the strategy required to crack it is also different.

Before I start flooding you with “rules” to be followed during a phone interview, keep in mind, not to  take these interviews lightly. Just because it’s a telephonic interview, it doesn't mean that you sip a coffee or smoke while you are on the phone line.

Show the same seriousness that you would have shown, if it were a “conventional” interview. Because when you are not serious, it reflects in your voice.

Wish them in an with enthusiasm.
Smile as you wish them. Because, even when they can’t see you, anyone can find out your state of mind from your voice.

Preparation for a phone interview is just like any other interview.

Even they ask you the similar nature questions as a “conventional” interview.

Here also, you need to identify your strengths and weaknesses, and the questions related to your background.

However, because you don’t get to interact with the interviewers, face to face; there are other things to be taken care of too.

Things you should be ready with

Remember, a telephonic interview is not just a casual call to your friend – “Hey buddy! ‘Wat’s up? ”

It’s an interview and your job depends upon it. There are things to be taken care of, prior to your interview.

Let's start with the basics.

 Notepad and a pen.

You might need to note down some details and contact information. Also, you might have to answer a few analytical questions.
You don’t want to fumble and say – “Hold on! I will get a pen.”

So, always keep a pen and a paper in front of you, before you make that call.

A glass of water.

A glass of water can always come handy during stress, which is common when you are appearing for an interview.

Your resume

What do you need the resume for? After all, you know about your background – right?

You will be surprised to know how many people fumble in telling even about themselves during stressful situation of the interview.
Keep it with you – You have been warned.

Other things to take care of

Apart from the above mentioned points, you need to pay a special care to avoid any possible source of distraction, whatsoever.

The first thing that you need to do is, to ensure that there is no noise in the room. Inform your roommates before hand. Ask them to turn the music and TV off. Go to a quiet room and turn the call-waiting off, so that your call doesn’t get interrupted during the interview.

Talking on the phone isn't as easy as it seems. 

I've always found it's helpful to practice. 

Search for common telephonic interview questions and ask your friends or family members to take a mock interview for you.

Record this interview and listen to it.

You'll be able to hear your "ums" and "uhs" and "okays". Avoid using these fillers.

When you need a moment to recollect your thoughts, simply pause.

And always enunciate slowly and clearly, especially while you are giving your interview.

Also, in a phone interview your answers should be short and precise, because a long answer may bore your interviewer, something which you would never want to happen.

Too many rules – right?

Don’t worry! These rules apply to your competitors as well.

Have a great interview!