5 Tips to Nail Your Next Phone Interview

The hiring process has gotten longer over the years. It’s rare to have just one interview anymore. Instead, companies are taking advantage of technology by having preliminary, although just as important, interviews over the phone or using a video call service.

In this post we’ll talk about ways to feel confident in your phone interview, allowing you to make a lasting impression – without even meeting your interviewers face-to-face.

1. Be Prepared.

You might be able to hold the interview in the comfort of your own home, but that does not mean that you should split any focus. Be just as prepared for this interview as you would be for an in-person interview. The people on the other end will be able to tell if you came prepared or slacked off before you got on the call. Have a notebook ready with talking points or for taking notes, and have your resume out to reference. Good preparation is the start of a great phone interview!

2. Find a Quiet Location.

Nothing is worse in a phone interview than having a lot of noise in the background distracting from your conversation. Phones are sensitive to noise, a public space will probably give away your location to your interviewers on the other end. They should not hear friends or family members having a good time, nor should they hear a coffee drink being artfully prepared.

3. Dress the Part.

Of course, this is optional. You could do a phone interview in your pajamas if you’ve nailed all the other points. However, many job candidates find that dressing to impress actually helps them feel put together and in a professional mindset for the interview.

4. Walk Around and Project Your Voice.

Having a phone interview gives you the option to walk around and talk with your hands in a judgment-free zone. Go for it! You need to be able to communicate your enthusiasm and expertise over the phone, so if you keep yourself lively, people will be able to hear your passion on the other end.

5. Smile!

Next time you’re on the phone, listen for the difference in your voice inflection when you smile versus other times. It changes, and people want to hire happy people. Plus, smiling, even to yourself, keeps you engaged in the phone interview and helps communicate the enthusiasm and drive you have for the job position.

For more helpful insight on finding a job and navigating the job market, contact Beacon Search,Inc. As a leader in Restaurant/Hospitality recruiting for the past 30 years we may have a number of great career opportunities that match your skill set!