tentipsfortelephoneinterviews jobs features Virgin Media
With the increase in call centres and other telephone-based businesses, more companies are using telephone interviews to check the telephone manner and skills of potential staff.
Recent research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development found this method is used by 30% of organisations and 45% of private sector services.
Telephone interviewing is not usually a substitute for a good old face-to-face interview, however. They're a quick and easy way to identify and discount unsuitable applicants. In-depth interviews for senior and managerial positions are ideal when short-listing candidates for a face-to-face interview.
Here are ten tips to help you be at your best when interviewed over the phone:
A phone interview is the very best way to check a candidate's telephone manner, especially where telephone manner and customer contact are key parts of the role. Sometimes, role play can be used to assess a candidate's strengths and weaknesses.
Even though no-one can see you, smiling will help you to relax and sound positive. Some people also find that standing up while talking on the phone makes them feel more confident.
Make sure your surroundings are quiet and that you won't be disturbed. Shut the door, turn off the radio and your mobile.
Make notes of what is covered - you may be asked the same questions if invited to a second interview.
Think about what might be asked in the interview. Questions about personal details, education, career history and experience are common. The interviewer will be aiming to match candidates against the job description and person specification, so re-read them thoroughly.
Just the way you answer the phone has an impact on the person calling. Talk distinctly and clearly. If you're not confident in your speaking voice, you cannot compensate for it in other ways.
Try to establish something in common. Ask about the caller's experience with the company or mention something you have read about the company.
Watch out for awkward silences, umms and errs, and unintentional interruptions by either yourself or the interviewer. If you need a minute to compose your thoughts, don't be afraid to ask for a little time before answering.
You should be given the opportunity to ask questions - make sure you have some in mind.
Thank the caller for their time and express interest in the opportunity. A good touch is to send an email, reinforcing this. Don't be afraid to ask what the next stage is.
The advantages of a telephone interview are that it can be arranged with little delay, causes little disruption to your existing job and you'll know the outcome quite quickly. However, what you say and how you say it will be more important than in a face-to-face interview, so be prepared!
