Telephone Interviewing

Telephone interviewing has some compelling advantages.  It is cost effective and often convenient and expedient. As an added benefit it is free from appearance-based bias.  Often telephone interviews are used as one of the series of steps leading up to a face-to-face interview.  In particular common uses include initial candidate screening, to differentiate similar applicants and to obtain missing or more in-depth information, often of a technical nature.  Some organizations use the phone interview to ensure complete understanding by the job candidate of the job description. 

Applicants should be sure to set-up a properly created interview space for the interview: 
Secure a quiet area and a cleared, uncluttered space
Have the job description, your resume and transcript in front of you
Create prompting cards and key phrases you hope to use
Dress professionally (this affects your attitude and demeanor)
Take notes when needed including the names of those interviewing you (so as to be able to follow-up and call them by name). 
You may prefer to also have your computer present with the organizations website accessible.

During the Phone Interview:
Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
Don't interrupt the interviewer.
Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
Give short answers.
Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer ask if it would be possible to meet in person.

Phone Interview Questions:
Can you tell me a little about yourself?
What made you apply for this position?
How many years of experience do you have in _____?
What are the top duties you perform in your current position?
Why are you considering leaving your current position?
What do you know about this company/position?
What is the most important thing you're looking for in a company/job?
What is the most significant accomplishment you have made in your career?
How well do you handle stress?
What is your greatest weakness/strength?
How would you rate your communication skills?
What do you see yourself in five years?
When would you be available?
What's your salary expectation?
Do you have any questions?
-Also take a look at our interview questions page.

What Employers Want to Hear in a Telephone Interview:
Clear Greeting (Hello, Mary speaking…)
Appropriate Conclusion (Thank you for interviewing me…)
Enthusiasm-excitement about the job and the company
Knowledge of the position and the organization
A few substantive questions for the interviewer (not salary, benefits…)

Employers Don’t Want to Hear:
An unprofessional message on your answering machine
Eating, chewing gum, smoking, sniffling, typing or background noises
Being placed on Hold

After the Interview:
Take notes about what you were asked and how you answered.
Remember to say "thank you." Follow with a thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job.

Don’t forget to keep a log of job titles and organizations to which you have applied.  This way you will be better prepared if you are called unexpectedly.  Usually, when a call is unscheduled it is best to try to arrange a scheduled time so you can do your homework in the mean time.  

Finally, if you would like to schedule a mock interview with Career Services you can do so by calling 410-543-6075 or Emailing careerservices@salisbury.edu .  Indicate if you would like a mock interview of a phone interview