The document provides tips for preparing for and conducting a phone interview. It discusses phone interviews as a screening process used by employers to narrow their applicant pool. It recommends having a professional voicemail greeting, researching the company in advance, practicing common interview questions, and making sure to be in a quiet environment free from distractions. The document stresses that phone interviews should be taken seriously as a chance to advance to an in-person interview.

1. Website Links with more Tips on
Phone Interviews:
 www.career.vt.edu/Interviewing
 www.quintcareers.com/phone_intervie
w_etiquette.html
 www.yale.edu/hronline/startcareer/res
ources/docs/interview_tips.pdf
The Phone Interview
By Rocio Damato
The phone interview is a screening process that employers
use to dwindle down their number of applicants. It helps
them to find potential candidates that are true matches to the
position’s requirements. When you are selected for a phone
interview, the goal is to get to the next interview process. The
first step is to provide a phone number on your resume that
an employer is able to leave a message. That way you are
able to respond when you are relaxed and ready. You must have a professional
greeting on your voice mail, avoid long messages and music. A phone interview may
last up to an hour depending upon the complexity of the job. So, if you answer an
unexpected phone call from an employer, you may ask to call them back at a later time
if you do not feel prepared or don’t have enough time.
Tips to prepare for a phone interview:
 Make sure that you practice common
interview questions.
 Ask friends how you sound on the
phone. Do you sound interested? Too
loud? Annoying?
 Bring enthusiasm to the phone
interview by smiling.
 Do your homework, research the
company.
 Have a list of questions for the interviewer.
 Have your resume available in order to answer questions accurately about your
experience, skills and abilities.
 Make a peaceful and quiet environment to have your phone interview.
 If possible use a landline instead of a cell phone to call, that way you can avoid
broken up reception.
 Have pencil and paper available in case there are further instructions.
Don’t let the phone interview get you unprepared. Though it is not face to face, it cannot
be taken lightly. Remember, when you receive a call from an employer it means that
you have matching criteria to the position. If you follow these tips you will be able to get
to the next level of the interview process.