12 Proven tips for a successful phone screen!

1. Be ready and waiting for the phone call in a distraction-free environment.  Avoid background noise like TVs, stereos, and other people talking.  Whenever possible, try to avoid the use of mobile phones due to potential reception issues.
   
   
2. Be prepared for delays in their contacting you – don’t panic.  Allow fifteen minutes on either side of the contact time.  If the delay reaches thirty minutes, call your recruiter.
   
   
3. Have a pad, pen, and copy of your resume near the phone.  Review your resume again just prior to the phone call to refresh your memory.
   
   
4. Be sure you get the caller's name and position with the employer.  Repeat it to him and write it down.  Using their name during the interview will build rapport.
   
   
5. Do not speak too fast, eat, smoke, or chew gum during the phone conversation.  Avoid saying anything which might portray a poor image and do not use questionable language.
   
   
6. Goal is not to get the job – it’s to get the face-to-face interview.
   
   
7. Be enthusiastic and assertive.  Remember that you don't have the benefits of body language and eye contact to show your excitement and interest, all you have is your voice.
   
   
8. If you stand up while you are speaking your voice will sound more confident and less lethargic.
   
   
9. Do not ask questions that appear to be selfishly motivated.  This is the most common mistake people make during phone interviews.  You should not even bring up the subject of money or benefits! Your only goal at this point should be selling the company on your skills and experience - talking about money prematurely can only have negative effects.
   
   
10. Be prepared for tough questions.  Why are you leaving your present position?  What are your strong/weak points? What were your biggest accomplishments in your last position?  The employer is often more interested in how you handle tough questions then your answer.  Be short and concise, rambling will get you into trouble.
    
11. Do your homework.  Check out the company's web site, Google them, find out their history, and mission, and be prepared to point out how you can help them achieve their goals.
    
    
12. Let them know you are interested.  As a parting comment let the potential employer know that you are very interested in the position and why. The enthusiasm you display could be the deciding factor between you and another candidate.

Good luck, and please call us immediately after the phone interview to discuss a follow-up strategy at 800-838-0602.