How To Scale Through A Phone Interview

It is no longer news that employers are increasingly conducting phone interviews and sometimes Skype interviews in order to reduce the number of candidates they invite for face-to-face interviews.

Phone Interview Tips

Sometimes they do this to reduce the cost of conducting interviews for a large pool of candidates, as well as to reduce productive time spent interviewing candidates who may eventually not be suitable for the job. Sometimes, it's because the interviewer is not available yet and wants to move forward with the recruitment process.

Some of the reasons for using phone interviews are usually to assess the following:

1. How confident the candidate is.
2. Your diction and English language skills.
3. Your suitability and interest in the position.
4. Your confidence level.
5. Your phone etiquette.
6. The qualifications listed on your resume.
7. How well you respond to unexpected calls.

From that HR call simply asking "if you would be available for an interview" to the more complicated ones where the content of your answers are screened or how you sound is scrutinized, HR personnel could determine if you would be invited to the organization for a face-to-face interview.

Phone Interview Tips

When too many qualified people apply for the same job, phone interviews are usually used to determine how well you would likely fit into the role. The following tips will help you:

1. Never sound bored, tired, or yawn on the phone. To avoid this, once you receive a call from an HR official, simply ask the person to allow you to move to a cooler and quieter area. This would work wherever you are and will give you a little time to get yourself together. Cut out all distractions.

2. Ensure that you are prepared if you are expecting the call or even when you see an unknown number. It helps to show courtesy to everyone who calls you.

3. Sound confident on the phone. I read somewhere that you could imagine yourself as a speaker on a stage, much more engaged with your audience. To build your confidence on the spot, act it out, breathe, and speak calmly and gently.

It is also believed that standing is the best way to pull this off. Have materials in front of you (bullet points) to aid your responses. So it's important to research any company you have applied to and have the information readily available.

4. Always say things like you mean them. When you mean something, it can be perceived. Employers are interested in candidates who know what they know and are confident about it.

5. Smile, even though the interviewer can't see you. The power of a simple smile is irresistible. This will help you feel relaxed and sound confident. Smiles can be heard even when you are not seen, so sound excited, healthy, and interested.

6. Take it as seriously as you would a face-to-face interview.

7. Listen and don't dominate the conversation. This is an interview, which means they will be asking you questions, but it's also an opportunity to show your potential employer that you're good at listening too. A good listener can make a great conversation.

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