Tips on Telephone Interviews

Today we are seeing more and more screening done via phone.  While this definitely cuts down on commutation costs and dry cleaning bills, it's a lot tougher to impress someone over the phone and even more difficult to know whether you're on the right track when you can't see your interviewer's face.  The only thing that helps you sell what you say via phone is the way you say it.  Here are some things you can do to energize your telephone interviews:

Always stand when interviewing via phone.  Pace. Wave your hands around.  Sitting not only flattens the diaphragm, or at least that's one thing I've been told, you can also get just too relaxed and comfortable which may cut into your tone and volume.  When you pace, your energy is up.  When you use your hands or smile as you would in a face to face interview, it tends to energize your voice as well. 

Check out your facial expression in a mirror.  Pass by a mirror while you're interviewing via phone.  Watch your facial expression.  If it's flat or lifeless, you can bet your voice is reflecting what you're seeing. 

Watch your pace, volume and tone.  It is hard enough to keep up with a fast talker when they're sitting in front of you.  Speaking too quickly when interviewing via phone can really damage your chances to make it to the next round.  Likewise, if you are soft-spoken, you may come across as weak or unsure.  There is a time and place for soft-spoken and the telephone interview is not it.

Know your space fillers.  We all have space fillers, things we say when we're reaching for our next answer.  Your space filler may be 'you know' or 'like' or 'uhm'.  Whatever it is, be aware of how often you use the space filler because it can really detract from the important information you're trying to convey. This is true in person and especially true when you're interviewing via phone.

Do NOT multitask when on the phone!  You know how easy it is to talk to someone with your laptop open in front of you.  This is not the time to multi-task.  Focus on the interview.  Your e-mail will wait until you're through.

If it won't make you crazy, have someone coach you while you interview via phone.  You can actually talk to them so you are interacting with someone in the room.  Know your own tendencies to either speak too quickly or quietly and have your coach signal you to either slow down or speak up.

With the volume of resumes floating around today, it is likely you will have to go through at least one phone screen.  Have your stories ready to tell.  Get your walking shoes on and be ready to wow them with your energy and enthusiasm.