TELEPHONE INTERVIEWS

• Be organized. Once you have sent out resumes and networked, create separate folders for each contact established.
• In each folder have a copy of your resume, a copy of the job description and the names of the contact people

• Often the phone interview is scheduled, just like an on-site interview. However, if the phone interview has not been scheduled, the call will probably come in at the worst time: 8:00AM or 4:25PM.
• In any event, sound positive, friendly and in control. “Thank you for calling Dr. Smith, could you please wait a moment while I close the door?” Get the correct folder out, make sure everything is in there and RELAX.
• Have a pen and pad of paper ready.

• Just like in a face-to-face interview, address the interviewer by Dr., Ms., or Mr.
• If there are multiple people on the line write their names and titles down.

• You are a professional and a pro knows what they are talking about.
• The interviewer(s) will probably do most of the talking, but do not be afraid to ask questions during the interview. (“What major projects are currently in progress?” “What sort of person do you envision in this position?”)
• Avoid yes and no answers because they provide no information.

• Speak directly into the phone and do not eat, smoke, pick or chew during the interview.
• Take notes because they can be helpful in the fact-to-face interview.
• Note taking can also help you if the interviewer is interrupted during the interview, you will know where the interviewer left off.
• Use what you have learned from your research about the organization; a little “schmoozing” goes a long way.

• Ask about the responsibilities, priorities and major goals of the position.
• Do not ask about money or benefits. Save it for the face-to-face.

• Take the initiative and tell the interviewers(s) WHAT YOU CAN DO AND HOW YOU WILL DO IT.
• Talk about your major accomplishments, projects and career contributions.

• That is your objective. If you have not been invited, make yourself available. If the position sounds like it is what you want then tell them.
• Once all the arrangements have been made, get a written itinerary of WHO, WHAT, WHEN and WHERE.