A telephone interview is usually a precursor of the hiring process for both the employer and the candidate. This is where the employer will assess a potential candidate by calling them up and asking a number of preliminary questions before considering the arrangement an in-person interview.

While this may seem like a simple formality the truth is an employer can learn a lot about you from the way they present yourself during a phone call. Here are a some pointers to help you get through a potential telephone interview in the future.

Conduct initial preparation

Once the call is scheduled it’s time to start doing some research. You should prepare for the call in exactly the same manner that you would for a face-to-face interview.

Find out what you can about the company and its operations including its history and staff numbers. With this information you can then be suitably prepared to answer any questions that the interviewer may have. It also offers up the ability to fashion some questions about the company.

Be prepared to take the call

While some employers may call unannounced, many will follow best practice and schedule a call within a certain time frame that suits both parties. Leaving a scheduled call unanswered without notice or reason will be deemed as highly unprofessional in the eyes of an interviewer.

When the interviewer phones at the specified time make sure that you are readily available to take the call. If there is a change of circumstance that leaves the you unable to conduct the interview the make sure to give prior notice and reschedule to a more suitable time.

Listen attentively

When the interviewer is speaking it is of great importance to listen carefully to every word and jot down notes of every detail. This prepares the candidate for any related questions that the interview may ask.

It also allows you to reference any key points through their own questions. Good communication is a key skill that employers crave. Displaying this kind of attentive communication down the phone will place you in a good position with a prospective employer.

Speak clearly and concisely

Once again good communication is the key here. When an employer phones a candidate the last thing they should receive is short answers and hushed tones. Make sure ask and reply to each question in a confident tone and professional manner.

It is only natural to be nervous in any interview situation so its important to keep the conversation on point without trailing off. One of the drawbacks of a telephone interview is the inability to read expressions of the interviewer. This means that the you must be extremely precise in everything you say and how you present it verbally in order to make a good impression.

End the call on a positive note

When the call is about to wrap up,  make sure to thank the interviewer for their time. If an in-person interview has been scheduled, mention your anticipation for meeting and express gratitude for receiving the opportunity.

After a couple of hours you should then send a follow-up email thanking the employer once again for their time and confirming your interest in the position.

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