Telephone Interviews

Telephone interviews are often used during the early stages of the selection process for initial screening of applicants. This is generally considered to be cost and time effective though it may be a disorientating experience for the interviewee as visual clues are absent. All candidates can be asked exactly the same questions which improves the objectivity of the exercise.

The employer would normally phone the interviewee to explain the process and to arrange a suitable time for the telephone interview to take place. The interview could last for 30 minutes to an hour. The interview may be tape recorded to allow a report to be written after the event.

Some advice

• Prepare in advance as for a normal interview.
• Ensure a suitable location, free of interruptions. Avoid public phones.
• Be comfortable, try to relax and imagine that the other person is in the room. Talk directly to him/her.
• Most of your impact will come through your voice so try to sound animated and enthusiastic. It helps if you smile!
• Have a copy of your CV or application form with you. A list of things you have done that demonstrates your skills and experience could be useful to jog your memory.
• Have a note pad and pen handy.
• Be honest. Say what you think. There are no trick questions.
• Take the opportunity to add additional points at the end of the interview to persuade the interviewer that you are an ideal candidate for the position.
• Some people find it useful to dress the part. It may help you to focus on the interview!

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