How to Acquire a Desired Job Opportunity Through a Phone Interview

Preparing for a phone interview is akin to preparing for any other critical interview. Success in a phone interview is fundamentally tied to understanding the two primary purposes of such an interview—exploration of an opportunity and influencing the interviewer for a favourable decision. Additionally, knowing your own goals is crucial to achieve the desired outcome. This article outlines steps and strategies to master a phone interview aligning with these objectives.

Exploration of an Opportunity

A phone interview is often the initial step in the screening process. During this stage, the interviewer, whether a recruiter or an employee from the employer’s organization, aims to gauge your true interest in the job and assess your communication skills and personality traits. It can also be an elimination exercise. If your primary interest in the role is to explore an opportunity, being well-prepared is key. Prepare a list of insightful questions in advance, with the intent of asking them at the end of the conversation. Your objective is to gather essential information to determine if the opportunity warrants further pursuit.

Here are some good practices to follow:

Being Polite and Attentive: Maintain a courteous and attentive demeanor throughout the call. Clear and Slow Speech: Speak slowly and clearly, ensuring that the interviewer can understand you easily. Requesting Repetition: If you don’t catch a question, don’t hesitate to request the interviewer to repeat it. Quiet Environment: Make the call from a quiet location to ensure no distractions interfere with the interview. Telephonic Interview Tips: Search online for additional tips and resources to enhance your preparation.

At the conclusion of the interview, express gratitude and inquire if you can call back for further information if needed.

Influencing the Interviewer for a Favourable Decision

If the interview is important to you, you need to give it the attention it deserves. Before the interview, research the company, the role you are applying for, and even the interviewer (if known). Most interviewers appreciate a candidate who demonstrates seriousness and sincerity in their application. Be alert, responsive, and answer questions to the best of your ability. Ensure that all distractions are eliminated during the interview. Keep a notepad and pen handy to take notes.

To leave a positive impression, prepare meaningful questions to ask the interviewer. For example, inquiring about the team dynamics, company culture, or recent projects would be more appropriate than asking when the office hours are. Show genuine interest in their business, technology, customers, and other relevant aspects of the role.

Obliging or Time Pass

While it may sometimes be tempting to participate in a time pass interview, it is generally considered undesirable. A time pass interview wastes the interviewer's valuable time as well as yours. If your circumstances have changed, inform the interviewer about it and decline the interview politely. Some individuals engage in such activities purely for fun, which may lead to a bad reputation and negatively impact your future career prospects.

Hope this advice will help you in acing your next phone interview.

Best Wishes,
Susanta