Phone Interview - What to Expect

TexiKen

So, I have a phone interview for a potential job tomorrow (a two letter computer company), and I have never had a phone interview before. I have asked a few friends who have had them since graduating, and the one thing that seems to be a consensus is the "Describe yourself in three words" question. So, I'm asking here what to expect. Basically, the duration for the interview, certain questions, etc.

Also, I try to make stuff light hearted in conversations in order to break the ice and establish a good rapport. What concerns me though is the lack of being face to face in order to make sure the person gets the joke or comment without getting offended. I kind of don't want to sound like a complete stiff on the phone, but I also don't want to be putting my foot in my mouth. I have no problem speaking in front of people, but I feel the phone may limit my charm and personality.

So, any advice?

Snake Charmer

I absolutely love phone interviews. I can be wearing something comfortable, read what I have written down without them knowing, and basically do all the walking around I want [what i do when I'm nervous]
When you need a few seconds to think before answering you can bite your lip to keep from saying 'errr' or 'ummm'.
Don't ramble, ask 'would you like me to elaborate?' before going too deep into an answer. Speak clearly and loud enough.
Just sound excited and be very thankful for the interview and your charm will come through and smile! It actually helps.

Good luck!

TimTheSloth

i agree with snake. Make sure you are always on the same page as the interviewer. It's ok to ask for a little feedback as it goes along as to whether they are getting the answers theyre looking for. You can always of course make a little small talk about how their day is going for them, how is the weather, etc. which always breaks the ice. Also be sure to ask them questions (in any interview), ask how they like the job, what the best parts of working for the company are, what the hardest part of the job would be etc. Don't treat it like a tryout for the job as much as you trying to match up with them to see if you and the job would be a good fit together.

As always, play it by ear... if your ad libs aren't getting a good response then try to keep it a little more professional and serious. Also be sure to tell stories illustrating your skills and talents in context, that always helps show your problem solving abilities which is pretty huge depending on the job.

good luck!

MichaelLC

All good advice above.

I'd recomend throwing in industry buzz/keywords as well.

So for example if you're applyuing for a sales position, you;d talk about your monthly numbers, repeat customers, SFA, your territory, etc. THis helps the interviewer take better notes, as they can just write, "TexiKen - sold $120,000 last quarter." instead of trying to translate your story about how you rock.

Numbers are always good for phone or in-person interviews, as well. # of PCs assembled, # of students trained, # of ditches dug; everybody's got numbers.

jotate

Avoid nodding in response to something they say. Instead, vocalize.

Feel like such an idiot nodding for someone on the phone, but I do it nearly every time.