Regardless of whether an interview is over the telephone or face-to-face it should be approached in the same way - seriously! Even though you may not be sitting in front of someone, your tone, clarity and enthusiasm can be detected over the phone. Think of a time when you have been talking to a friend and they sounded happy - you can tell, right? Of course you can. The same goes for telephone interviews. If you display positive energy, this will come across in your voice.

Telephone Interview Process

•  Find somewhere quiet where you won't be disturbed.
• If you are unable to make the interview due to illness or other circumstances, please contact us as soon as possible so we can reschedule.

The Telephone Interview

• Be punctual. Please be ready to take the call when your interviewer contacts you.
• Have a positive attitude. Even though the interviewer can't see you they can hear you.
• The key to making a good impression, and to a successful interview, is preparation.
• With thorough preparation, you will be in a good position to display your knowledge of yourself, the job and the business area to which you are applying.
• When answering the questions, emphasis points you wish to make by varying your tone of voice, change your pace and remember to stay relaxed. This will help you answer the questions.
• Remember to speak clearly.
• During the interview you will be asked a series of questions which will relate to the business area you have applied and the competencies they are looking for. You can reflect on your experiences during school, university or work to help you answer the questions.
• Be yourself. Smile. Even though the interview is over the phone, positive energy can be communicated.

 Be Prepared:

• A copy of your resume, the caller will certainly have a copy in front of them.
• A copy of the job description.
• Information about the company.
• Blank pad of paper and something to write with.
• Your diary of appointment schedule/record of your current commitments.
• A note of key questions you wish to ask.
•  Reference list.
  

 
When the call comes

• Answer the phone clearly and in a professional business like manner.
• Acknowledge the caller by name and thank them for calling, referring to them by their family name and Mr. or Ms. unless invited to do otherwise.
• Take notes and list key phrases that will act as an aide memoir to answering the question, as well as acting as reminders when writing your notes afterwards.
• Be prepared to give 2-3 sentence answers, providing facts about your skills and accomplishments but remain brief and to the point.
• Listen closely to the questions asked and think carefully about your answer. Silences often seem longer on the telephone but you must give clear and accurate answers to the specific question asked. On occasions, if possible, finish-up your answer with another question as this can help establish further dialogue.
•  Be positive and appropriately assertive. Sound positive and enthusiastic and smile when speaking.

Concluding the interview

• At the conclusion of the interview, the employer will usually explain what happens next, if they do not then ask what the next step will be.
• Thank the interviewer for calling and for their time.

Best of luck!