SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Ace Your Next Phone Interview

SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Ace Your Next Phone Interview

Many companies use phone interviews as an efficient way to pre-screen job candidates. It’s important to keep in mind that an interview is still an interview whether it is conducted over the phone or face to face. It requires the same level ofpreparation and professionalism. Although you don’t have to worry about sweaty palms, picking an outfit or finding a parking spot, you still need to make a positive first impression.

Some people do exceptionally well over the phone while others struggle. One of the things that make phone interviews so challenging is that you can’t read the interviewer’s body language nor can they read yours. But they can tell a lot by the tone of your voice. At the end of the day, you want to develop rapport with the screener so you can make it to the next round.

Here are some tips to help you ace your next phone interview:

1. Practice, practice, practice. Ask a friend to practice over the phone with you so you can figure out exactly how you sound and what you may need to modify

2. Try a headset and hand-held to determine which one sounds and works better for you

3. Get dressed for the interview like you would for an in-person interview. You will feel more confident and prepared.

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4. Collect all the information you need for the interview and make sure you have it at your fingertips. You want to be prepared for any question.

5. Stand over your desk while talking. Standing allows you to breath more deeply. The deeper you breathe the better you sound. It will help reduce anxiety too.

6. Look in the mirror while talking. Keeping a happy expression on your face will make you sound friendly and pleasant.

7. Don’t interrupt or talk over the interviewer. Take your time and listen to the person as if you were in a face-to-face situation.

8. Be engaging, interesting and informative.

9. When appropriate, weave in some interesting things about you or your expertise that distinguishes you from the competition.

Margaret Batting is the Corporate Style expert for GoLocalProv.com. Margaret is the owner and president of Elevé Image Consulting and the only certified image consultant and personal brand strategist in Rhode Island. She travels the country as the national corporate image consultant for CareerBuilder. For more information, visit www.eleve-style.com.