Here, we’ll give you the tips and advice you need to help you understand what you should never do in a phone interview.
1. Avoid the ‘ums’ or ‘ers’
If you’re not nervous about an interview, there’s something wrong. But, whilst nerves are only natural, it’s vital that you understand how to overcome them and not to let them overtake you.
Phone interviews can sometimes be unexpected and out of the blue, so it might catch you off guard. If you haven’t prepared or don’t know what to say, then the dreaded ‘ums’ and ‘ers’ could strike.
The phone interview is a test of character, knowledge, and personality. Therefore, making those utterances can make you sound like you don’t know what you’re talking about.
As soon as the interviewer introduces them self, you need to show them that you know what you’re capable of as a candidate. Alongside this, you should showcase your knowledge of the role.
Prior to the interview, try and do as much research as you can, and revise what you have learnt as often as possible. This means that when the phone rings, the ‘ums’ and ‘ers’ will be non-existent.
2. Don’t be rude
This may seem obvious (we were taught this long before we could walk!), but it’s easy to forget just how valuable manners are, especially if you’re under stress.
Your sense of etiquette in interviews links back to first impressions and is expected to carry on into the workplace as well. You’d be expected to do the same in a face-to-face scenario, so why would it not be the same the over the phone? Be polite to everyone you speak to.
As well as the obvious pleases and thankyous, make sure there is no background noise. You want to let the interviewer know you are still making them a priority and how much this job means to you.
If you’re in a busy and noisy place, move as far away from it as you can. This will ensure that the interviewer can here you and shows that you’re focused on them and your success in the interview.
3. Never be unprepared
We all know this age old saying: ‘fail to prepare, prepare to fail’. But, it really is true. Organisation is paramount in the workplace, so demonstrating this in your interview is equally as important.
Whilst you may think ‘isn’t that just for face to face interviews?’, it also needs to be shown in phone interviews, even if they can’t see what you’re doing. Doing so will also help you to avoid those ‘ums’ and ‘ers’ again!
Making notes is a good idea. The interviewer will more than likely be scribbling away too, as he/she will need some record of the conversation either for his/her recollection .
If writing down notes is not an option, think of questions to ask the interviewer yourself. This links back to the importance of knowing about the company and what to say.
Write down the questions, revise and rehearse them and maybe practise them in front of family and friends. This way, you’ll minimise the chances of fumbling your words and coming across as unprepared. Preparing for a job interview is crucial, regardless of whether it’s over the phone or face-to-face.
4. Ditch the frown
It’s no secret your mood can affect what people think of you. Nerves can make you seem quiet and reserved, while a bad temper can make you appear very standoffish and blunt.
Your personal emotions cannot get in the way of job interviews. Even if it’s via an unexpected phone call. Of course, this is easier said than done. If you have multiple things going on at once, it can impact your ability to maintain your focus at the time.
Regardless of what the situation is before the interview, do your best to put it to one side and smile as soon as you say hello. The person on the other end can always tell when something is wrong. In other words, when you’re ‘metaphorically’ frowning.
The more confident and positive you seem, the better your personality comes across.
Ready for your phone interview?
Phone interviews often take us by surprise, and can leave us in a tizz. But follow these steps on what not to do as best you can and you’ll come across just as strong a candidate as you would in a face to face scenario.
If you need more interview guidance, read our handy article on job interview tips.
About the author: Emma Gullon is a guest blogger for CV-Library. As well as writing advisory blogs here, she also has her own blog, Curious Reviews, in which she writes reviews on theatre shows in the Yorkshire area.
