This document provides tips for acing a phone interview. It discusses preparing for the phone interview by researching the company and position, having a cue board with relevant information, and practicing common interview questions. The document outlines phone interview etiquette such as finding a quiet space and being concise. It describes the purpose of the initial phone screen and recommends following up by thanking the interviewer and expressing continued interest in the role. The document also identifies red flags to avoid during the phone interview such as being unable to describe your experience or showing a lack of enthusiasm.

1. Acing the Phone Interview Presented by: Amy Walz Phil Block

2. Objective To increase your understanding of the screening process so that you can adequately prepare yourself and ace the phone interview!

3. Overview Staffing vs. Internal Recruiting Landing a Phone Interview Phone Interview Etiquette Red Flags to Avoid Interview Wrap-Up Using a Cue Board Q&A Handouts: Slides, Sample Questions

4. Staffing vs. Internal Recruiting Staffing Recruiting Recruiting based on client needs Confidentiality agreements May have limited knowledge/information Proactive recruiting More casual process (impromptu screens) Internal Recruiting Recruiting based on manager needs More formalized process

5. Preparation Landing the Phone Interview Application Customized Resume Brief cover letter Don’t apply multiple times Get to Know the Right People Network Attend company events and job fairs Utilize social media to connect with and learn about the company Build mutually beneficial relationships with potential advocates

6. Preparation (cont.) Research Company Background Understand the business Recent changes and news Job Requirements Aligning previous experience/competencies with duties Be prepared to address gaps in experience or skills Prepare for common interview questions Have a “Game Plan” Phil’s Method

7. Phone Interview Etiquette Find a quiet location with no distractions Always answer a scheduled call Follow their process Be concise in your answers and be aware of time (30 minutes) Understand the purpose of the screen To obtain some basic candidate information Experience, salary/hourly rates, location, etc. To ask initial screening questions Evaluate communication skills, gauge interest, identify candidate’s goals/priorities, identify red flags Learning example

8. Red Flags to Avoid Unable to describe experience Negativity Arrogance Vague Salary/Hourly Ranges Extensive/Irrelevant Questions Weak communication skills One word answers, failure to carry conversation, etc. Lack of professionalism Making incorrect assumptions about company/position Failure to show energy and enthusiasm

10. Show gratitude and appreciation

11. Express interest with “sell” statement

12. “Thank you for your time, recruiter. Based on our discussion, I think this position sounds like a great opportunity to use my experience/skills to add value to your organization. I want you to know that I am very interested the opportunity and look forward to moving on to the next steps if appropriate.”

13. Always return calls and emails promptly

14. Make scheduling the next steps easy (specific dates/times)

15. Obtaining feedback if declined

17. Preparation Research the company Purchase a “Fold Out Display Board” Create your cue board type out sheets using word processor; print; tape bullet lists questions

19. Place cue board on table or desk top

20. Take interview standing up

21. Use fully-charged cordless phone

22. Resume and cover letter ready

23. Printout of job posting/description

24. Appointment calendar ready

25. Paper and pen for notes

26. Clock or watch

27. Glass of water

29. Cue Board Bullet Lists Career Highlights Proudest Achievements Negative Performance / Failure My Questions Magazines You Read Recent Books LISTEN! LISTEN! LISTEN!

30. Questions???

31. Hand-outs Presentation Slides Sample Questions Source: http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewquestionsanswers/a/phoneintervquest.htm