Tips for a good phone interview

Bokeh

Tips for a good telephone interview

•Don't use a speakerphone. Try not to use a cell phone to avoid poor reception, dropped calls and the like.

•Ensure that everyone in the house understands the importance of taking accurate phone messages and answering the phone in a professional manner.

• Don't use long or crazy outgoing voicemail messages.

•Have a specific time for the interview.

• Smile on the phone whenever you would be likely to smile if you were face-to-face. It helps to project your personality to the interviewer.

• Don't do ad lib, unprepared interviews. Have your resume and any supporting information in front of you for reference. Unlike an in-person interview, you can have "**** sheets." Take notes during the interview; just don't let it interrupt your train of thought.

• Keep answers to two or three minutes, if possible. Have lots of accomplishment stories ready to tell.

• Don't be afraid of short pauses to help you think. Be sure you answer the question. Ask for clarification if you don't understand the question.

Have questions ready for interviewer.

SOURCE: Chuck O'Brien, a senior consultant with Ratliff & Taylor

MentholMoose

Some good tips. Another one I've heard is to situate yourself in a good speaking position, since the way you sit has an effect on how your voice sounds. Apparently slouching is the worst, whereas sitting with good posture or even standing is the best.

Heero

some people might overlook this, but use a headset! Having both hands free is very helpful.

pakgeek

This might be helpful.

Erika Flora's Blog: Mastering the Dreaded Phone Interview

Ryan82

Don't google the answers to the technical questions during the interview. I have seen (heard) this more than once. Just admit it if you don't know something, nobody expects anyone to know everything.

Hypntick

Shortest phone interview ever, 7 minutes. Apparently he liked what he heard, face to face on Wednesday at 3:30 WOO!