How to Ace a Telephone Interview: Tips for Success
In many ways, a telephone interview can feel more daunting than a face-to-face meeting. Without being able to see the person asking the questions or gauge the atmosphere in the room, it’s easy to feel unsettled. However, don’t let nerves get the better of you. Just like any other interview format, there are strategies to help you perform at your best.
Do Your Homework
Treat a telephone interview as seriously as an in-person one. Research the company thoroughly, practice your talking points, and ensure you understand the job description and how your skills align with the role.
Consider what you can bring to the company culture and how your values fit alongside theirs. Reviewing the organisation’s social media can offer additional insights. Prepare a few well-thought-out questions to ask at the end, tying them into the role and the company’s vision for the future. Planning ahead will help ease your nerves, just as in a face-to-face interview.
Prepare Your Environment
Before the interview, set up a quiet and distraction-free space. Have everything you need within reach, including your CV, a notepad, and a pen. Check in advance if any maintenance work is scheduled in your area that could interfere with your phone signal.
Ensure your phone is fully charged, with the volume turned up to avoid any technical issues mid-call. Ask a friend to call you beforehand to confirm everything is working. Keep in mind that the interviewer’s number may appear as an unfamiliar or out-of-area call—don’t assume it’s spam and ignore it!
Also, consider your pets—background noise like barking dogs can be distracting.
Dress for Success
While it may be tempting to stay in your pyjamas, dressing professionally can help put you in the right mindset. Wear an outfit that suits the workplace environment of the role you’re applying for. Treat the interview as a formal event—it will help you stay composed and answer questions effectively. Good posture matters too, as slouching can impact your voice and confidence.
Be a Good Listener
Active listening is crucial in a phone interview since you won’t have visual cues to rely on. Pay close attention to the interviewer, and don’t hesitate to ask them to repeat a question if needed.
Let the interviewer lead the conversation while responding thoughtfully. When it’s your turn to speak, take a moment to gather your thoughts rather than rushing into an answer. Pauses are expected, and a well-structured response will leave a stronger impression.
Show that you’re engaged by using verbal acknowledgments like “I understand,” “yes,” or “okay” at appropriate moments. Avoid interrupting—without visual cues, it’s easy to speak over someone, so ensure they’ve finished before responding.
Strike the Right Tone
Speak clearly and confidently. Before the call, take a sip of water to clear your throat. Your enthusiasm will be evident in your voice, so adopt an upbeat and energetic tone.
Standing up or walking around while speaking can help project confidence. Feel free to use hand gestures if it helps—no one can see you! The advantage of a phone interview is being able to do what makes you feel most comfortable without distraction.
End on a Strong Note
After asking your own questions and thanking the interviewer for their time, ask when you can expect feedback if they haven’t mentioned it. Telephone interviews are often the gateway to an in-person interview, so leave a lasting impression by reiterating your enthusiasm for the role.
Final Thoughts
Once the call ends, ensure the line is properly disconnected before letting out a sigh of relief! While the interview is still fresh in your mind, jot down notes on the questions asked, how you answered, and areas for improvement. Even if you don’t progress to the next stage, every interview is a valuable learning experience.
By following these steps, you’ll boost your confidence and increase your chances of success in a telephone interview.