Insider tips on dealing with phone interviews
With more and more candidates applying for the same position, many employers now
look to phone interviews as a quick and easy method of screening applicants or
as a precursor to one-on-one interviews. This form of interviewing also has
numerous practical advantages, particularly for candidates applying from abroad
or from other parts of the country.
Phone interviews, however, are not as straightforward as they seem. Researchers
believe that 80% of jobs are won or lost during the first five minutes of the
conversation. Given these circumstances, it is essential to prepare thoroughly
for the interview and to master the relevant techniques.
Ensure that your contact information is accurate. No employer wants to waste
time trying to contact you if you have changed your phone number or have moved
to a new address. Keep things professional. If you aren't available when the
employer calls, he or she is likely to leave a message for you on your answering
machine. Make sure that your answer phone greeting is professional. Practice!
Phone interviews can often be quite intimidating. Practice with a friend. This
will also provide you with the opportunity to assess your style. Try to sound
confident and professional.
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