Phone Interview Guide

The objective of a telephone interview is twofold:

a. To provide the company an opportunity to verify your interest and qualifications for the position. You must convince the interviewers that you are right the person for the job.

b. To arrange a personal visit as soon as possible. You must aggressively pursue the on-site visit.

The telephone interview can be scheduled either during the workday or the evening depending on your work schedule and that of the company. Generally, the company will call you. If you do not hear from the company within 15 minutes of the appointment, you should assume that something unexpected has delayed the call and call the company. If you do not get the hiring authority, be sure to leave a message that you called as a demonstration of your interest. In your message state you want to reschedule the call.

After the initial exchange of pleasantries, open with a positive expression of your interest based upon what you have heard about the position then say "I’m looking forward to arranging a personal visit with you. In the meantime, what may I tell you to help you better understand my qualifications?’

Respond with information about your accomplishments. Take the time in advance to develop a brief "commercial" outlining your strongest abilities and accomplishments.

Provide concrete examples from your career that demonstrates your ability to do the job.

Think through some of the issues that may come up in the interview. Be sure you have any notes, facts or figures that maybe helpful in your conversation. Determine this information through studying the company web-site, annual reports, etc.

When you are asked if you have questions about the job, these owners might be appropriate.

• Can you tell me more about of the specific duties, responsibilities and expectations for this position?
• What are the long term and short term opportunities of this position?
• What are as the three top priorities and challenges of the position?

You need to remember three things…

(1) If you are asked about your income expectations, try not to discuss salary or benefits at this time. If the hiring official asks something such as "How much money will it take to get you?" reply with, "salary is important; however I’m more interested in the opportunity at this time." If you are asked again,

• Respond accurately and truthfully state your last year’s salary.
• Be sure to designate bonus if applicable.
• Indicate your last review and /or salary increase and next anticipated review.

Finish by saying you are sure the company will make a fair and equitable offer.

(2) If you like the job opportunity, tell the interviewer you are interested and ask when you can come for a personal visit. Coordinate schedules for a face-to-face interview at this time

Oh, and, by the way, if the interviewer makes you an acceptable offer - TAKE IT.

Keep in mind the most important issue during this process is selling yourself. Cover your technical expertise but think people.

(3) Call your recruiter after the interview to provide critical feedback.