In today’s fast-paced hiring process, screening has become an essential first step towards a successful hire. Telephonic round is the first and important step in the screening process.
Unlike face-to-face interviews, they rely entirely on your voice, tone, and communication ability.
Preparation for a telephone interview is essential for candidates to create a strong impression and move to the next stage.
This guide involves practical tips to help you be confident in your telephonic interview round.
Treat It Like a Face-to-Face Interview
Just because the interview is on the phone does not mean it should be taken lightly. Prepare as you were meeting personally.
Research the company, review the job details, and understand the role you are applying for. Familiarize yourself with the company’s values, missions, and recent developments.
This knowledge will allow you to tailor your reactions and show enthusiasm for the opportunity.
Practice Your Responses
Rehearsing common interview questions is a great way to improve your confidence. Prepare answers to questions like:
- Tell me about yourself.
- Why are you interested in this role?
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- Can you discuss a challenging work situation and how have you handled it?
Practicing can help you refine your answers, ensuring they are clear and concise. You can record yourself to get a response to your tone and delivery or practice with a friend.
Keep Your Notes Handy
An advantage of a telephone interview is that you may have notes.
Start and print your cover letter, explain the significant points about the company below, and prepare a list of questions to ask the interviewer.
However, avoid reading with your notes – it is essential to make natural and engaged sounds instead of scripted ones.
Find a Quiet and Comfortable Space
Background noise can be distracting for both you and the interviewer. Choose a peaceful place where you won’t be interrupted.
Ensure your phone has a good reception and you may use the headset for better sound quality. If you need to clean your throat during the call, having a glass of water nearby may also be helpful.
Speak Clearly and Confidently
Since the interviewer cannot see your facial expressions, your voice bears the entire communication weight.
Speak at a medium speed, clear your words clearly, and avoid mumbling. Smiling while speaking can make your tone more positive and energetic, making a better impact.
Listen Actively
Good communication is not only about speaking – it is also about listening. Allow the interviewer to complete their questions before answering.
If you do not understand anything, ask for clarification. A brief pause before responding can help you make thoughtful reactions.
Show Enthusiasm
Your enthusiasm for the role should be evident in your tone. Express your interest in the company and the situation using positive language.
If something stimulates you about the role, mention it. A recruiter wants to see if you are eligible and if you really want a job.
Ask Insightful Questions
You will be allowed to ask questions during the interview process. Prepare thoughtful questions that display your interest, such as:
- What is success in this role?
- How does the company support employee development?
- What is the team with which I am working?
- What’s the culture of the organization
Avoid asking about salary and profit at this stage until the interviewer brings it up.
Follow Up with a Thank You Email
After the interview, you may send a follow-up email thanking the interviewer for their time.
Repeat your interest in the situation and briefly mention one or two significant points from your conversation.
It not only reflects professionalism but also strengthens your enthusiasm for the role.