Telephone Interviews - do these differ from face to face?

There may come a time when you're asked for a telephone interview. There could be a number of reasons for this, one of the most common being convenience.  They are usually used as a first stage interview, which if successful provides a step to a face to face interview with a company.  They are also used more frequently for jobs where your ability to communicate effectively over the phone is essential – for example a telephone based customer service or sales role.

Telephone interviews are very different from face to face interviews, although they do share similarities, and although usually shorter, employers will expect you to have prepared in the same way.

Mobile or landline?  It doesn’t matter which phone number you use as long as you ensure you are in an area with good signal.  If you choose to use a landline, be aware this will be the number the employer will contact you on from now on.  Of course you will be available to take the call – but if for any reason a potential employer hits voicemail, consider is your voicemail professional and does it create the right first impression of you.

In the first instance remember to answer the phone politely and professionally.  Remember to use your name when answering your phone and have an icebreaker/introduction prepared.

Print out your CV, the job description and any notes on the company you feel are relevant.  Have them near you so you can refer to anything you need quickly.  Writing down questions is also a good tip for telephone interviews. Because the interviewer cannot see you they are not aware of the preparation you will have to hand. What you say holds more importance and having questions and information to hand can be very effective.  Taking notes as you are being interviewed can be useful so you can refer to them when you get called in for your next interview!

Practice will help. Any experience on the phone that allows you to feel more comfortable is very handy and could make the difference. You might ask a friend or relative to help you practice and ask you a few formal questions. They will also be able to give you some feedback.

Your voice is very important, ensure you speak confidently and clearly and importantly listen to what is being asked of you.  Sometimes interviewers will ask you specific questions where they want a tailored answer, but other times the purpose of the telephone interview is to hear you talk and get a feel for your telephone manner.  Listening to what they are asking you, will help you change your approach on the phone.  

Where will you be when they call you?  Nothing comes across worse than someone walking down a road and hearing street traffic or loud music etc.  Prepare your environment, ensure you are somewhere quiet where you will be able to concentrate 100%.  Double check if anybody is likely to be around and advise them that you don't want to be disturbed. If your focus is lost because of someone coming in on you, when you're on the phone it may give the wrong impression.

Have as little visual distraction around you as possible and focus on what you're saying.

Good luck!