How to Handle Telephone Interviews

A telephone interview is a great way to ease into the initial, tense encounter with your potential employer. Telephone interviews or "phone screenings" are becoming more and more common in today's technology driven workplace. Phone interviews are no longer exclusive to positions requiring heavy phone contact like call centers, help desks or reception. This type of interview can be somewhat intimidating, but needn't be.

There are many misconceptions about the phone interview. Many of the misconceptions exist because of the relative newness of this interview type. Some believe that during a phone interview you don't have to worry about your dress, posture or other considerations essential to the traditional in-person interview. I do not agree. All the rules from my previous article Lights Camera Interview still apply. There are a few extra points exclusive to the phone interview.

If a recruiter or hiring manager calls you without advance notice and wants to interview you on the spot, use caution. How often do you accept offers to "come in right now?" A phone interview should be scheduled at a designated time like any other. If given the option, schedule the interview during a time when you won't be distracted. If you have small children try to arrange for a sitter. Avoid times when you may be expecting furniture or other deliveries. Once you are scheduled, be sure to turn off televisions, radios and yes, cell phones. These actions will insure you can take or place the call without being interrupted. I advise against using a cell phone as well. You don't want to lose a call in the middle of an interview. Make every effort to conduct interviews from a landline.