The modern job market is so competitive that, as a candidate in any industry, you have to try and do whatever you can to separate yourself from the competition. Whether or not you progress from the initial Telephone Interview stage of the selection process can often be decided by the finest margins and, excuse the cliché, you never get a second chance at a first impression.
At Petrorek, using our experience and our clients' feedback, we have put together a simple formula to help put you in the best position to impress your potential employer at the Telephone Interview stage:
1. Prepare
Although this sounds like the most simple of tips, you'd be surprised at how often it is taken for granted and overlooked. Confidence going into any type of interview is vital, however, you cannot lean solely on your experience. Do your research. Get to know the company history, the project and the company structure. Have a look at the profiles of current employees on LinkedIn to get an idea of the culture and what they look for as an employee. If you've been put forward by a headhunter/recruitment agency, make sure you get your recruiter to do some ground work for you. Any agency worth working with will go out of their way to clarify any uncertainties you may have and help you prepare properly for the interview.
2. Get in the Right Frame of Mind
There are three main points to this tip. Firstly, even though this is a telephone interview, the importance of your dress can make a huge difference. I'm not suggesting you dust of your finest tux or that little black number you wore to the last staff party, but the difference between wearing your pyjamas and a smart business outfit can be stark. Secondly, it is important to try and ensure you have a stable telephone line arranged before the interview. Losing phone signal during an interview can throw both yourself and the interviewer completely off-track. Thirdly, find a quiet spot somewhere, and be prepared and waiting (preferably reading your notes from Tip 1) at least fifteen minutes before the scheduled call time. A desk or table (in a quiet location) with a landline phone is ideal. Ensure you're dressed smartly and sitting upright so that you're alert and attentive.
3. Smile While You Dial
This follows on from Tip 2. Anybody who has had any type of telephone, sales or public speaking training would be fully aware of the importance of smiling while talking. It may take some getting used to and some practice but you'll soon notice the difference and change to a more positive tone. Smiling while talking during the interview will make you sound more engaged and positive - traits any potential employer will surely be looking for.
4. Pace Yourself
This is possibly the most painful of the 5 tips. A lot of people find it an unpleasant experience but it is important that you record yourself having a conversation with a friend, family member or colleague and listen to it back before your interview. The majority of people are shocked at how quickly they talk and this is very important in any interview (especially if it is for an international role where there may be a language barrier). Try not to dominate the interview and make sure you listen without interrupting. Brief silences during telephone interviews are normal as the interviewer will often be taking notes, use these to think and make sure you take a breath before answering any questions.
5. Be Polite
As the old saying goes: "Good manners cost nothing". They may cost nothing, but good manners are invaluable and an important reflection of your values and character. Manners are a key indicator of what you may be like as a potential employee and can change the tone of the interview completely. Be polite and courteous throughout the interview, even if the interview isn't quite going to plan. Don't forget that the end of the conversation may be how the interviewer remembers you!
Do you have any more tips to add to the sheet? Feel free to share your experiences and opinions below!Please follow the Petrorek page to keep up-to-date with any positions, market news and for further tips: https://www.linkedin.com/company/6315957?trk=tyah&trkInfo=clickedVertical%3Acompany%2Cidx%3A1-1-1%2CtarId%3A1436522031214%2Ctas%3Apetrorek
