Preparing for a phone interview

Take it seriously

A phone interview seems so informal on the surface that it can be easy to fall into the trap of "phoning it in" -- i.e., not preparing for it as well as you would for an in-person interview. Don’t get caught with your guard down. Be sure to research the company, study the job description, and practice your responses to anticipated questions, just as you would for any other interview.

Have your CV and cover letter in front of you

You’ll almost certainly be asked about some of the information that appears on these documents. You might also want to have in front of you any supporting materials that relate to information in your CV and cover letter, like documents you’ve designed or written, a portfolio of your various projects, or the written position description from your past positions.

Make a crib sheet

Jot down a few notes about the most critical points you want to make in your interview. Are there certain skills and experiences you want to emphasise? Do you have certain interests or passions you want your interviewer(s) to know about and understand? Be sure these pieces of information appear on your crib sheet. Then touch on them during the interview, even if your only chance to do so is at the end of the session when the interviewer asks you if you have any questions or anything to add.

Get access to a high-quality phone

This isn’t the time to use a mobile phone that cuts in and out, or a cheaply made phone that makes it difficult for you and your interviewer(s) to hear and understand each other.

Stand up,

or at least sit up straight at a table or desk Again, there’s a psychological, frame of mind aspect to consider here. But on a more tangible level, research has shown that you project yourself better when you’re standing up, and you'll feel more knowledgeable and confident.

Have you ever had a phone interview? Have you got any tips to share with someone who's about to have a phone interview?