Recruiters systematically use a phone interview before offering you a physical interview. This is the time to show your motivation and that you are the ideal candidate.
The telephone interview can be scheduled, but it can also be done in a surprising way by calling the candidate directly. Whether it is the result of a spontaneous application or an application for a position, be prepared! To do this, discover our 7 tips for a successful telephone interview.
Our 7 tips for a successful phone interview
Tip 1: Prepare for your phone interview
You have applied for several job offers and you are waiting for answers. Don’t sit idly by for feedback, and be prepared for potential questions from recruiters. Here are some sample questions: Why did you apply for the job? Why do you want to work in this company? What are your salary expectations? How long are you available?
Of course, you will need to have the answers to all these questions. If you are working, be sure to check your notice period.
Do not hesitate to take notes on the company, on the position, or on what does not seem clear to you. In a telephone interview, no one will see your notes and this will allow you to retain important information or key figures. On the other hand, be careful during the telephone interview not to recite your text and to remain in a dialogue with the recruiter.
The telephone interview is always a complicated exercise.
Tip 2: Don’t Pick Up Your Phone Instantly
Even if you’ve been waiting for a response for a long time, don’t rush to the phone. Let the recruiter leave you a message and call back at the right time.
For example, you can recall it when you are at home, or when you have managed to find a quiet corner without outside noise.
Tip 3: find out about the company and the sector
Before calling back, be sure to read the offer again and find out a little about the company and the sector. You will need to mention 2 or 3 elements during your telephone interview. When does the recruiter ask you what attracts you to the company? This will be the time to make a good impression by highlighting the company’s values, or you can also show that you are particularly sensitive to the latest commitments they have made…
Tip 4: Find a quiet place to have your phone interview
You will need to find a quiet place to make your call. It takes 15/20 mins. Choose a quiet, indoor location. Above all, do not call back when you are in transport, on the street or walking.
If you are on the job, choose a place where your colleagues cannot hear you. For example, you can go to a break room or book a meeting room to make your call quietly. Being indoors in a quiet place will save you from additional stress.
Tip 5: Highlight your skills during the phone interview
Remember that the recruiter is contacting you because he is very interested in your profile. The telephone interview is there to validate essential points. Now is the time to showcase your skills. Briefly describe your background and why you are applying for the job. Show off your skills, but don’t recite a ready-made text. Let the recruiter express himself because he will surely want to deepen certain points. Be clear, concise, and precise to provide a maximum of information in a minimum of time.
Be sure of yourself, speak firmly, and with a smile, it will be felt on the phone. You will show that you are a dynamic and friendly person.
Tip 6: Do not hesitate to ask questions at the end of your telephone interview
The telephone interview allows the recruiter to see if the candidate meets his criteria, but it is also the time for you to find out more. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate. This is an opportunity to find out more about the offer, but also about the team, the company, the budgets granted…
Your questions will be appreciated and it will show that you project yourself in the company.
Tip 7: Wrap up your phone interview
To make a difference, as a wrap-up, ask the interviewer what they thought of your interview if everything was clear to them, and what the next steps are in the hiring process. When will you get an answer? What are the recruitment steps? Do not hesitate, also, during this feedback, to ask him for advice to improve your job interview next time.
Although the phone interview can be stressful, remember that it should be an exchange. Do not hesitate to bounce on the words of the recruiter. Be attentive and thoughtful so that the interview is fluid, efficient, and pleasant for both parties.
