If you’ve ever had a job, there’s a pretty good chance that you’ve used a phone during the interview process. Whether it was an in-depth remote interview or simply a quick touch-base, nearly every working professional has experienced a phone conversation prior to being hired. Since first impressions are so crucial, it’s important that you’re equipped with the confidence and techniques for nailing that first point of contact.

Do your research in order to prepare for the phone interview. Research the job, the company, even your interviewer!

Do your research!

You might be able to wing a conversation about politics with your in-laws, but when it comes to a professional phone interview, you need to know what you’re talking about. Make sure you know as much as possible about the company. Even little details like the original founders or the founding date can impress even the most rigid hiring manager. If they can tell you’ve taken the initiative to research their company before the interview, you’ll be one step closer to landing the job.

Make a connection

If the interviewer just wanted a boring rundown of your job history, they would’ve asked for a resume. They need to put a face (and a personality) to the name that showed up in their “Applicants” inbox. Try to connect on a personal level, even if it’s simple, seemingly unimportant things. Perhaps make a reference to a sports team, or how long you’ve lived in the area, or even your hobbies. Creating a more complete representation of yourself will go a long way towards standing out.

Have questions ready. Keep your notes close by so when the phone interviewer asks if you have any questions, you will be prepared and not scrambling around.

Have questions ready

The interviewer will almost always ask if you have any questions during this process. While they may have done a good job of informing you throughout the call, it’s important to appear engaged and reactive. It needs to be a two-sided conversation, and it’s a good idea to come prepared with a few topics that you’d like to ask about.

Eat something

Wise decisions are never made on an empty stomach. That’s why it’s a good idea to grab a snack before the call. When you fuel your body with good, nutritious food, your brain works faster and more efficiently. It’s science, folks! Also, the interviewer doesn’t want to hear your growling belly over the phone.

Don’t interrupt

No matter how confident you are, it’s imperative that you only speak when permissible. If you’re trying to finish the interviewer’s sentences and jumping at answers before they’ve finished asking the question, things can go very wrong, very fast. Relax, take it slow, and give complete answers once it’s appropriate. Don’t ramble, either!

If you’re worried about that initial phone call, don’t be. Just remember to relax, eat something, and prove that you’re excited about the job. If you incorporate these tips, you should have no problem impressing the manager and standing out from the crowd!

Smile! 🙂

Bonus tip: Smile!

Your enthusiasm and excitement for the opportunity will come through your voice when you smile during your interview! Don’t forget that your attitude means everything when it comes to nailing that interview.

How do you nail a phone interview? Comment below!

Source: http://dianegottsman.com/2012/01/dos-and-donts-of-phone-interview-etiquette/

Article Contributions By: Shawnita Mays

Coming up next week – Dress to Impress: Interview Edition