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• Interviews are intense and an artificial way of determining whether you will be a good fit for an organisation

• Phone interviews are often the 1st step in the process and require just as much preparation as face-to-face interviews

• Perhaps even more preparation is needed for a phone interview

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• Phone interviews are used in first stages of the recruitment process to find the best candidates

• They allow an employer to screen candidates on their experience, qualifications, and remuneration expectations

• Your goal is to secure a face-to-face interview

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• The same rules apply to phone interviews as face-to-face ones, prepare for it as if you are meeting in person

• When we get nervous, we increase our speech speed - speak more slowly & vary your tone to reflect  emotion

• Sitting up straight or standing can improve your voice clarity

• Make sure you have researched the organisation and interviewer (where possible)

• Preparation is key!  Prepare an ice-breaker, for expected questions and ask questions about the role & organisation

• Try to obtain the job description and understand how your skills match

• Practice a mock interview over the phone with a friend

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• Phone interviews may be scheduled or surprise calls

• Make sure you answer your phone professionally and that you have an appropriate voicemail in case not available

• When you receive a call about the role you have applied for, ensure you can speak freely and without interruption

• Don’t feel uncomfortable to re-schedule a time when you have ideal conditions

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• Often a call will come through when you are traveling or in a noisy environment

• We all feel pressed to continue the call so we don’t lose out – this is a sure way to interview failure

• Give 100% of your attention to the call

• Do not eat, drink or chew gum during the call

• Disable call waiting for the call duration

• Prepare the people in your home so that they do not pick up the phone or interrupt the call

• Choose a location where a mobile reception is uninterrupted or use a landline

• Create a relaxed environment for yourself that excludes kids and pets and have a glass of water handy

• Have a copy of your resume printed and highlight the areas you want to emphasize

• Have some paper and a pen ready so you can take notes

• The great part of phone interviews is that you can have a, “cheat sheet” in front of you

• Set aside at least 30 minutes

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• To make a connection with the interviewer, step one is to listen

• Take notes while you try to find things that you have in common with the role as it’s discussed (based on experience)

• This will allow you to bond with them

• When you speak, try to drink some water first, to prevent clearing your throat

• When appropriate, smile as you speak.

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The Salary/remuneration question​

• A question that often comes up is salary and what you expect. Be prepared for this. 

• The first thing you can do is say that you are more interested in the role than the remuneration package  

• You can also mention since the organisation pays market rates, you would be keen to hear what they are offering

• The best ammunition is research. If you are feeling pushed or want to have a quote or a figure in mind, have a look on a few job boards for similar roles/job titles and you can say you have researched what the market is paying.

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Questions to ask

Don’t be shy to clarify what is being asked as this will ensure that you answer appropriately

Have some questions prepared with the goal of learning about the organisation and getting to the next stage

At the end of the call, it is a good idea to restate why you would like to join the organisation and if possible to ask for a face-to-face interview.

Remember to leave an impression by sending a thank you message straight after.

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All the best with getting to the next stage!