Phone interview tips | How to ace a phone interview and secure the best jobs?

Have a phone interview coming up and you want to give your best? Here are some useful phone interview tips to make a lasting impression.

Phone interview tips

The world we live in is interconnected. Jobs today are no longer restricted by geographical boundaries. Companies today have the flexibility of conducting interviews by multiple methods to shortlist candidates. Phone interviews have emerged as a popular method to interview candidates. These are typically shorter than an in-person interview. In this blog, our phone interview tips can help you ace the interview.

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What is a phone interview?

Recruiters usually conduct phone interviews in the initial rounds. The interview allows an employer to screen you bases on experience, salary, and qualifications. A phone interview is structured. The questions asked during the interview tend to be tailor-made for the interview. Companies generally schedule phone interviews in advance, and you will get time to prepare.

Purpose of phone interviews

Telephone interviews are conducted as an initial round to screen candidates. Candidates that clear the phone interview are offered an in-person interview. 

There are several reasons why employers conduct phone interviews before further rounds. The purpose of phone interviews is as follows –

1. Phone screen interview to clarify missing information

Hopefully, your resume should be able to tell your prospective employer the details regarding your experience, qualification, etc. If the Human Resource department thinks you are a good fit they may arrange for a phone screen interview to get specific inputs about your work history or any other clarification.

2. Phone screening interview to determine your qualification

Phone screening interviews are popular, to determine if you have the required technical knowledge for the job. They will examine your logical thinking. They will ask you specific questions to determine if you are qualified for the job. They may present a technical problem and ask you how you would solve the problem. Phone interview tips include preparing well for the technical round.

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3. Telephone interview to determine your interest levels

Several candidates apply for the position, and the company does not want to call someone who is not excited about the job. The interviewer will note your enthusiasm levels, whether you are willing to relocate and how soon you can join if selected to determine your interest levels. 

4. Communication skills in phone interview vs in-person

Recruiters judge communication skills during phone interview and in-person interviews. One of the main differences between a phone interview vs in-person interview is that in a phone interview you do not get visual clues on how the interview is progressing. Phone interviews can be less stressful help you communicate more clearly. Phone interview tips are you can use notes and reference material during the interview.

5. Determine if you a good fit in your 15-minute phone interview

Employers are looking at several factors while hiring someone. They want to examine if you will thrive in the office environment. During the 15 minute interview, they will ask behavioral and situational questions to narrow down the list of applicants.

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How to prepare for a phone interview?

Phone interviews are usually conducted by recruiters and not hiring managers. Recruiters receive several resumes for each post and shortlist the top candidates based on phone interviews. You may be able to take phone interviews from the comfort of your bedroom, but you need to prepare for it. Here are our top tips on how to prepare for a phone interview –

1. Prepare questions to ask during a phone interview

Remember phone interview is a conversation, not an interrogation. Think of questions to ask during a phone interview to determine if you would enjoy working there. It is a good idea to prepare 2 to 3 questions. Ask meaningful questions to show that you have researched the company. Some typical questions can be- 

• Why do you enjoy working for this company?
• How is the work environment?
• What are the next steps in the interview process?

2. Prepare well for a phone interview

Just like an examination you need to be serious while preparing for your phone interview. One of the best phone interview tips write down or highlight the terms used in the job description. They are looking for specific skillsets and abilities. You can tailor your answer to meet their requirement. Prepare the answers to technical and some human resource questions.

3. Listen to the phone screen interview questions

During the interview you will be asked hone screen interview questions, but you need to listen actively. Let the interviewer guide your interview. You can ask follow-up questions but do not dominate the conversations. Use your interview, to reinforce your intentions of joining the company and pay attention during the interview.

4. Create a comfortable environment for a telephone interview

You may find your first telephone interview phone intermediating and stressful. Take proactive steps so that you feel at ease. Avoid a place with distractions or background noise. It is one of the first steps on how to rock a phone interview. Review your resume and highlight key parts of your resume.

5. Tips for phone interview after your interview

One of the best tips for a phone interview is sending a thank you note to your interviewer on the same day. Confirm your interest in the company and your desire to proceed further. You need to be patient as you may not receive a reply to your thank you note. You can send two follow-up emails”, after your interview.

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On-call – how to ace a phone interview?

You have received an invitation for a phone interview after applying for a job. There are several advantages of phone interviews, such as there is no commuting, you do not need to dress up, and your body language will be immaterial. But you still need to impress, the interviewer over the phone. Here are some tips on how to ace a phone interview –

1. Cover deliverables during the phone interview with the hiring manager

The hiring manager examine if you meet their base requirement during the phone interview with the hiring manager. Study the job description carefully or talk to ex and present employees. You need to know the essential deliverables of the job. Highlight your strengths in these areas during the interview.

2. Maintain conversational tone during your 15-minute phone interview

Phone interviews typically last from 15 to 30 minutes. Many candidates start strong but fade away during their allotted time. Some phone interview tips are to keep your answer descriptive and avoid monosyllabic answers. You will sound nervous if you speak too fast. Remember to listen to the interviewer carefully before you respond.

3. Acing a phone interview by demonstrating you are a good cultural fit

There are several parameters to judge candidates. One of the essential parameters is if you will be a cultural fit for the organization. Acing a phone interview can be achieved by showing that you will be a good fit for the company. You will get clues by studying the company’s online and social media presence. You will get an idea about brand personality and vibe. 

4. How to nail a phone interview by understanding the recruiter role?

One of the ways on how to nail a phone interview? You need to understand the recruiter’s role in the hiring process. Companies compensate recruiters when they recruit a person. They want you to succeed. Do not feel scared to ask the interviewer for clarification if you do not understand the question or inputs on the hiring process.

5. What to say on a phone interview?

A phone interview is less formal than an in-person interview but still, need to prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer. Do your research and prepare questions regarding growth prospects, challenges, vision, and company products to show your interest and gauge if you want the job. Prioritize your questions so that you do not run out of time.

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How to do a phone interview – 5 interview etiquettes

While looking for a job, you need to take the interview process seriously. You may have the qualification and experience required to get the job, but you still need to clear the phone or in-person interview. You need to follow some basic interview etiquette. Here are some etiquettes tips for how to do a phone interview –

1. Phone interview vs in-person interview

There are some differences between a phone interview and an in-person interview. You cannot make eye contact in a phone interview, and it may be harder to stand out. Dress for the phone interview as you would for an in-person interview as it might help you feel in control. Wear clothes that make you feel professional and confident.

2. Be ready for phone screening interview questions

You can be prepared with some commonly asked phone interview questions. There are no guarantees they will ask these questions, but these will improve your responses.

• Are you prepared to relocate for this job?
• What interests you about the job?
• If hired, how soon can you start?
• What are your salary expectations?

3. Practice interviewing

Prepare for an interview like you would prepare for your exams. Practice interviewing with your family or friends. You need to be prepared to sell yourself. As soon as you land the interview start researching the company and your role. The more you prepare, the more confident you will sound over the phone. Prepare the answers to commonly asked questions.

4. Good things to say in an interview

Do not talk too much, listen actively and take notes are some phone interview tips. The notes will come in handy while asking questions at the end of the interview or provide valuable inputs for future interviews in the company. Good things to say in an interview are-

• You have the required experience.
• You work well with others.
• You are excited about the job.

5. Phone interview with hr

You can nail the phone interview with the HR department and use the fact that you are unseen to your advantage. Some phone interview tips are –

• Maintain a conversational tone. Your tone should stay upbeat and strong. Speak clearly and at a steady pace
• Eliminate distractions sit in place with no background noise and strong signal
• Place your resume and notes placed near you for quick reference

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Phone interview cheat sheet

A phone interview cheat sheet contains basic information about what to expect during a phone interview. Phone interview cheat sheet can help to refresh your memory and help you respond to questions confidently without fumbling. Here are some tips on how to nail the interview –

1. Company information for a job phone interview

During the job phone interview, they may question you about your knowledge of the company. Visit the company’s website and social media so that you have an idea about their products or services, objectives, and company executive. Write down some key points for quick recall during the interview.

2. Phone interview advice of positive frame of mind

Phone interview tips are to smile during the interview. Though the interviewer will not be able to see you, it may improve your frame of mind. Another phone interview advice is to dress well for the interview. You need to wear formal attire, but dressing well will improve your mindset. 

3. Schedule the call in a 30-minute phone interview

Schedule your call when you are not at work. Your 30-minute phone interview may last longer, set aside some extra time so that you do not have to rush. Choose a time when you will be awake and sober. Remember to select a time and place where you will be uninterrupted by colleagues or family.

4. Preparing for phone interviews

While preparing for phone interviews, prepare the answers to typically asked questions. You should write key skills and accomplishments. Prepare the answers to behavioral and technical questions. Some typically asked questions are:-

• Tell me about yourself.
• When can you start?
• What excites you about the position?
• Why do you want to work here?
• What are your salary requirements?

5. Elevator pitch for tips for phone interviews

Some tips for phone interviews include preparing an elevator pitch. Your interviewer may ask you to give any additional information. Use this opportunity to sell yourself – list out your accomplishments and skills. Reaffirm why you are the best candidate for the job. Use the opportunity to recap elements in your resume and emphasize the elements, you consider are vital for the job.

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After the phone interview, what happens next?

It is important to thank the interviewer after your phone interview. Send a thank-you note as soon as possible, while the interview is still fresh in the interviewer’s mind. Remember to emphasize your interest in the job and your qualifications for the vacancy. A well-crafted thank you note can help remind the interviewer about your strengths and skills.

How to end the phone interview?

Take the opportunity to ask any questions to the interviewer. Research the company before the interview and ask any questions you may have. Remember to ask the interviewer the next step in the hiring process. Tell your interviewer that you are excited about the position. End phone call professionally and wait for the interviewer to say goodbye before hanging up the phone.

How to answer phone interview calls?

Answer the phone call promptly. Greet the interviewer professionally and politely. Confirm you were expecting the call. Politely address the interviewer and do not use a casual tone. Dress appropriately and sit straight to reinforce the fact this is a professional interview. Take notes to organize your thoughts. Listen carefully before answering the question.

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What is the most professional telephone tip to follow during your job search?

Phone interviews are used to determine if the applicant can be shortlisted for further rounds. Here are some phone interview tips that may help –

• Be organized about your job search
• Prepare for the interview highlight the skills mentioned in the job description
• Prepare the answers to commonly asked questions.
• Research the company and prepare questions can ask after the interview.

What to expect in a phone interview?

Most phone interviews are screening interviews. The interviews are conducted to determine if you are a qualified applicant. There will be a brief review of your background and ask some questions. Typically you may be asked-

• Introductory questions
• Questions about work history
• Salary requirements 
• Why you want the job?
• Skill-based questions

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How to prepare for a Google phone interview?

Google phone interviews are extensive, there are quite a few things you need to do to prepare for the interview –

• Spend time on data structure and algorithms. Your basic concepts should be clear. 
• Practice writing code on Google Docs.
• Websites like Glassdoor have several questions asked by Google.
• Ask your friends to conduct mock interviews.

How long does a phone interview last?

Phone interviews are typically shorter than in-person interviews. The length of the interview often depends on the type of job and your calibre. Phone interviews are often used for prescreening the candidates. Phone interviews typically last for fifteen minutes to a half-hour. A good phone interview can go up to 45 minutes. Interviews for executive positions can last up to an hour.

What are the questions to ask the interviewer during a phone interview?

Questions asked after or during the phone interview can show interest in the company and the job position. Here are some questions you can ask-

• What are the most important elements of the job?
• Why is the position available?
• How is performance evaluated? How often do you evaluate?
• What opportunities are there for personal and professional development?

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What should be the next step, if it’s a phone interview no call?

There are a few steps you can take if the interviewer does not call-

• Cross-check the date and time of the interview
• Ensure your phone is charged and turned on. 
• Wait for 15 to 20 minutes and try to call the interviewer.
• Send a follow-up email after the call.

How to answer the phone for a phone interview?

Answer the phone call by stating your name. The caller will know they have reached the right number and will not have to ask you. Prepare for the interview including the greeting you will use. If you fumble during the call it may show poor communication skills. Be mindful of the tone of voice during the interview.

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How to start a phone interview?

You need to prepare for a phone interview as you would prepare for an in-person interview. Practice and keep your resume near you for reference. Make sure you sound professional when you answer the call, state your name clearly, and confirm you were expecting the call. Ensure your voicemail message is professional and crisp in case you are unable to answer your phone.