The other day, I got a call from a potential employer, and while taking about scheduling an in-person interview, the slang word “Yo” slipped out of my mouth and the woman on the phone quickly ended the conversation. A lot of companies are beginning their interview process with a preliminary phone interview before inviting you in for an in-person interview. It’s a smart idea for employers to weed out those who do not have the social prominence or fluidity for the position by seeing how the potential candidate can handle themselves on the phone. Here are the best tips for acing your phone interview, no matter how experienced you are.
Rambling
You’d think mumbling would be an issue, but apparently talking too much and too loudly is just as much of an issue. When we’re on the phone, our brain processes it as a casual conversation, so we tend to just spit off whatever is on our mind. Go into each interview with a pitch that lasts no more than 5 minutes. The best part of an interview that isn’t in person is that you can have a notepad with a list of talking points in front of you the whole time.
Enthusiasm
Sometimes it can be hard to tell just how enthused you are about the position over the phone, so imagine the employer can see the emotions on your face. Smiling while talking helps to convey happiness or excitement. Speak poised and confident, but never make it weird by being too casual. It’s always important to keep a balance between professionalism and excitement.
Stay In-Tune
If you’re walking while talking, driving and talking, or just not paying full attention, it’s going to show in your tone of voice. Make verbal responses showing you understand what is being said to you. Focus everything on the conversation, and eliminate all distractions. I don’t care if you have to lock yourself in a closet to stay in-tune, do whatever you can to land that job!
Ring, ring. It’s your future calling. You better pick up!
