4 Easy Ways To Prepare For A Phone Interview
By Selipha Kihagi
You are one of the job seekers shortlisted for an interview, but you cannot go buying a new suit or to the salon in order to look presentable. The interview you have landed is a phone interview. How do you convince the recruiting officer that you are qualified for the job?
According to Sheila Cheptoo, a recruiting officer at Corporate Staffing Services, you must be well prepared to convince the recruiting personnel that you are conversant with the role you are interviewing for.
So, how do you prepare for a phone interview?
1. Take Time To Do Your Research
Like the face to face interview, understanding the position you applied for and familiarizing yourself with the company is very important. Just because it is a phone interview does not mean you will be treated differently, in any case it will be a harder task trying to prove that you know what you are talking about. There are no facial expressions to support your answers.
2. Have A Great Phone Connection
As a jobseeker, having a good network connection is very important if you are determined to succeed. Your phone must also be well charged and in perfect condition to ensure there is effective communication. If the interviewer cannot hear what you are saying or you can’t hear the questions, then the interview becomes a waste of time.
3. Be In A Quiet Area
Yes, it is a phone interview but you cannot have it anywhere. You have to set up an area in your house or office where you will receive the call. You cannot be in a noisy place or in a distractive environment.
Lock yourself in the room, if you must, so there are no impromptu visitors. Also in that room, have your CV and Cover Letter with you.
4. Take A Shower And Dress Up For The Phone Interview
As a job seeker, your job is to find a job. That is especially if it is your first job or you are not currently in any position. You may decide to stay in and wait for the call.
Make sure you get ready like you would a face to face interview.
Taking a shower keeps you fresh and alert. Dressing up gives you confidence and the feel of a professional, this will translate to you sounding confident.
