5 Hidden Dangers of Having a Job Interview by Phone
Sometimes one of the most satisfying feelings in the world of the unemployed, broke and the surviving on ramen is when the phone rings and it’s someone ready to give you that first chance at a new job. Often, this first chance might take the form of phone job interviews.Â
Well, this isn’t ideal, but it sure is better than nothing, and for the companies that conduct phone interviews, this is a crucial step. While you may feel less pressure because your interview is over the phone instead of in person, there are a few ways you can screw this critical appointment up.Â
Keep in mind these five hidden dangers in phone job interviews that the specialists from cover letter writer service put together.
Realize it may last 15-45 minutes
When you accept a time for your phone interview, you have to make sure you have the time set aside. The last thing you want to do is rush answers or get off the phone early because you didn’t have time to finish.
Allocate up to an hour just in case. There’s a chance they might call you out of the blue while you’re sitting on the toilet and ask if you’re available right then and there. It’s always better if you are able to grab the opportunity, but if you’ve only got 20 minutes, it might be just better to reschedule.
You’re being screened for the real deal
What a lot of hungover college kids don’t stop to consider is that phone job interviews are really just a way to screen out the candidates they don’t want to come into the office. Keeping that in mind, realize the aim is to find out if you fit the basic criteria for the job.
This is where your research comes in and it’s best to have a board set up in your home or a notebook you can carry with you that lists specific information about the jobs you’re currently pursuing, what they are looking for, and how you can communicate that. Go over this stuff before your interview and make sure you pass the screening. You can also use online platforms to keep your job search in order, such as Career Companion.
Consistent answers are essential
Another thing the phone interview serves as is a bullshit test. It’s pretty easy for them to have your resume and application on hand while they’re talking to you and they will be sure to check if the answers are consistent. It’s best to not be a bullshitter at all, but keep a copy of the particular resume you gave that employer on hand just in case.
Bring your enthusiasm and interest
Your potential employer will also be paying attention to your level of enthusiasm about the job. Get excited about it. Get pumped. It doesn’t mean you should start spazzing out and asking them to fax you an autograph, but come across as exited and determined, as if you feel the job is the right fit for you and you are the right fit for the job. Once you have some solid interviewing skills under your belt, you shouldn’t be pursuing any jobs that aren’t your idea of a dream job, so it shouldn’t be a problem to be enthusiastic.
Ask relevant questions
As some relevant questions about the position at the end of the call. This once again displays your enthusiasm. It also shows that you understand the position and know what you are getting yourself into.
These tips will help you navigate phone job interviews, but the overlying concept and something to keep in mind is that these are not much more than a screening process. The number one goal you should have in mind when in this situations is getting that face-to-face interview. Because that’s where true attraction and personal bonding happens.
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About the Author Tom Woodie
Tom Woodie an editor and blogger. The last 5 years he worked as a recruiter and worked with people. But now he has a writing a blog, and he helps people by giving them advice on how to properly write a resume, cover letter, how to pass an job interview and other things.