A phone interview is a foundational screening step that allows employers to efficiently narrow a large pool of applicants and assess a candidate’s initial fit before committing to in-person meetings. This conversation is a prime opportunity to present yourself as a capable professional and advance in the hiring process.
Prepare for the Phone Interview
Thorough preparation is fundamental to a successful phone interview. Begin by researching the company’s mission, recent news, and products or services. Closely review the job description to identify the specific skills and experiences the employer is seeking so you can align your qualifications with their needs and demonstrate your genuine interest.
Next, prepare talking points for common interview questions. While you shouldn’t script answers word-for-word, be ready to discuss your background with “Tell me about yourself” and explain your motivations with “Why are you interested in this role?”. Practicing your responses will help you articulate your thoughts clearly. Using the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can help you provide concise examples of your accomplishments.
Prepare your own thoughtful questions for the interviewer. Having questions ready about the role, team dynamics, or company culture shows your engagement and foresight. These questions also help you determine if the role and company are a good fit for you.
Finally, create a dedicated space for the interview. Choose a quiet, private location where you will not be interrupted. Ensure you have strong cell reception or use a landline to avoid dropped calls. Have a copy of your resume, the job description, and your prepared notes in front of you for easy reference.
Best Practices During the Interview
Your vocal delivery is a primary tool for conveying confidence over the phone. Since the interviewer cannot see your body language, the tone and pace of your voice are magnified. Speaking clearly and at a moderate pace is important. Smiling while you talk can project a positive tone, and standing up during the call can help you feel more confident.
Active listening demonstrates your engagement and respect for the interviewer’s time. Pay close attention to what the interviewer is saying without interrupting. Small verbal affirmations like “I see” can show you are following along. When asked a question, it is acceptable to take a brief pause to collect your thoughts before answering.
Keep your answers concise and relevant. Avoid the temptation to ramble or provide extraneous information that doesn’t pertain to the question. A focused answer shows that you can communicate effectively and respect the interviewer’s schedule.
Taking brief notes during the conversation can be a useful tool. Jotting down the interviewer’s name, key details about the role, or questions that come to mind can help you personalize the conversation. These notes will also be invaluable when you write your follow-up thank-you email.
Common Phone Interview Mistakes to Avoid
A distracting environment signals a lack of professionalism. Sounds from a television, barking dogs, or a coffee shop can make it difficult for the interviewer to hear you and create a negative impression.
Providing answers that are long-winded or fail to directly address the question is a significant misstep. Interviewers have a limited amount of time, and when you ramble, you risk losing their attention and not providing the information they are seeking.
Under no circumstances should you speak negatively about former employers, supervisors, or colleagues. Complaining about past work experiences reflects poorly on your professionalism and attitude. Recruiters may interpret such comments as a sign that you could be a difficult employee. Always frame your experiences in a positive or neutral light, focusing on what you learned and accomplished.
Your tone of voice is the only indicator of your enthusiasm for the role. A monotone or disinterested voice can suggest a lack of genuine interest in the position or company. Conversely, an engaged and energetic tone can help convince the interviewer of your excitement and motivation. Make a conscious effort to sound upbeat and positive throughout the conversation.
Failing to ask questions at the end of the interview is often interpreted as a lack of preparation or curiosity. This is your opportunity to learn more about the position and demonstrate your interest. Prepare at least two or three thoughtful questions in advance to show that you have done your research and are seriously considering the opportunity.
Follow Up Professionally After the Call
Before the conversation concludes, ask about the next steps in the hiring process. Inquiring about the timeline for a decision shows your continued interest and helps you manage your own expectations.
A prompt and professional thank-you note is an important part of the follow-up process. Aim to send an email within 24 hours of the interview to reinforce your interest and acknowledge the interviewer’s time.
Your thank-you email should be concise and personalized. Thank the interviewer for their time and reference a specific topic you discussed to make your note memorable. Reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and briefly state why you are a strong candidate.