Phone Interview Tips for Job Candidates

Phone Interview Tips for Job CandidatesPhone Interview Tips for Job CandidatesPhone interviews have become a common tool for narrowing down the candidate pool, especially when hiring managers have a large number of applicants who look similar on paper. The phone interview can be tricky, though, because you cant make eye contact or observe the interviewers body language. Read these tips about phone interview etiquette and other ways to make a favorable impression when participating in a preliminary interview over the phone.Here are six tips for improving your phone interview etiquette1. Use a land line for the phone interviewIf possible, use a land line when answering a call from a hiring manager for a phone interview. It demonstrates that youve made an effort to carve out a special time and distribution policy for the call, and youll probably have a better connection for your phone interview.2. Observe quietPhone interviews require the utmost concentration. Do your best to remove all distractions and background noise, such as barking dogs, the sound of kids playing, ringing cell phones and doorbells.3. Refer to notesKeep notes at your fingertips during the phone interview and jot things down as the interviewer talks. Also, have some questions of your own ready to ask.4. Speak clearlyMake sure your interviewer can hear you plainly by speaking directly into your phone or headset. Phone interview etiquette dictates you let him or her finish speaking before you respond.5. SmileThis may sound like odd advice, but if you smile when you respond, youll come across as more energetic and positive. Some people even suggest putting a mirror in front of you during phone interviews to help you remember to smile and be engaging.6. Use proper phone interview etiquette Send a thank youAfter the phone interview, etiquette says you should send a note thanking the interviewer and reiterating your key pointsLooking for a new position? Learn how Robert Half can help you find a job.