Phone Interview Tips

A phone interview is not merely the first step in the job-search process. In reality a phone interview is the most important step, if you do not succeed in this the next steps never happen.
Follow these simple phone interview tips and take it to a face-to-face meeting:
1. Resume Have a physical copy of your resume and the job description in front of you during the call. Prepare a bullet list of items you want to cover during the conversation.
2. Getting Ready Open up the company’s website in your browser and have another window open to the search engine of your choice. But be sure to never let the interviewer hear you typing
3.Phone features. Disable call waiting or any other features. These noises can distract your chances of taking the interview process forward.
4. Use a landline. Don't allow outside noises or a weak cell signal keep you away from a good opportunity. Making the call from a landline avoids disconnection to a greater extend.
5. Time Management. Many job seekers make the mistake of trying to fit a phone interview during their lunch hour at work. Make the call at a time where you have a minimum of 30 minutes free
6. Say No to pets. If you conduct the phone interview from home, do it in a pet-free room. Make sure your cat, dog or bird is occupied and safe in another room, so barking and meowing is out of earshot.
7. Smile. Smiling when you speak brings energy and excitement to your voice.
8. Mute. If you need to take a sip of water or handle a situation outside of the interview, the mute button can be your best friend
9. Honesty. If a major distraction occurs during the phone interview, mention it. Your honesty will be appreciated;
10. Convince. Make sure that your answers during the call explain your experience, interest in the position, and desire to continue the conversation in person.