As my job has been job-hunting the past month, I can say that I feel like an expert at phone interviews. I mean, I really know how to nail them. At first I found them to be quite nerve-racking, I always thought I was better in person, making eye contact, and reading their body language. But I’ve actually come to realize that there are ways that phone interviews can actually be beneficial to the interviewee (is that a word?).
After doing a few over the past few weeks, I have found some things that really seem to help. Here are a few tips on how to nail that phone interview:
Get Dressed
Just because you aren’t actually meeting face to face does not mean you should lay around in your pajamas all day waiting by the phone. Clothes make a difference in how you feel. I’m not saying get dressed up, but I am saying take of the sweatpants and put on something that you would be able to walk out of the house in. Trust me, it will make a difference in your attitude and demeanor.
Plan Ahead
Because it is phone interview, take the time to write down notes. Write notes about the company, why you’re interested in the position, how you want to advance in your career, etc. Have these notes in front of you just in case you blank out on what your goals are or why you are even interested in the job. Take a breath look down, and you’ll be able to get right back where you left off. I like to have notes and my resume in front of me, just so I won’t forget to mention a specific job I’ve done and how it can relate to the position. That being said, review your notes over and over before the interview so you won’t be reading off word for word, which would sound totally obvious on the phone.
Breathe
As a soon to be yoga instructor, I have to emphasize the importance of breathing. If your future employer asks you a question and you totally blank, don’t freak out. Take a deep breath, gather your thoughts, and answer. It is SO much better to take time to answer a question thoughtfully, rather than spewing out answers that might hurt you in the end. Remember your interviewer is human, so take time for yourself to answer a question; they won’t punish you for it. Especially if you come up with a thoughtful answer.
These tools should help you nail your next interview, or at least help you prepare and feel more confident. How do you prepare for phone interviews or interviews in general?
Caitlin Hatch is a recent graduate of The University of Texas with a degree in government. She has a passion for politics, yoga, and social media. She is currently training to be a yoga instructor through Black Swan Yoga in Austin, TX.
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