Candidates

Phone Interview

The most important objective to remember is that you are working toward a face-to-face interview with the employer. Also remember that the OBJECTIVE OF ANY INTERVIEW is to get the potential employer interested in you. To make your best impression, communicate positively and with enthusiasm. Remember, you do not have the benefit of facial expressions and eye contact to show your interest. Follow the guidelines listed below.

• Make sure you are in an area where you are free to talk in a normal tone of voice. Avoid a workplace, for example, where you must whisper.
  
  
• The phone should be held securely and the receiver should be about one-half
  inch from you lips. You should speak in a normal conversational manner and
  enunciate well - Do not yell or mumble.
  
  
• Background noises can be loud, choose a quiet, private area. . If you have the "Call Waiting" feature on your phone, never, under any circumstance, should you answer it while conducting a phone interview. It may convey disinterest and disregard for the interviewer's time.
  
  
• If you are asked about salary be honest about your current salary. If you
  are asked what salary you expect for a new opportunity, reply "I am looking for the best career opportunity based on my qualifications. I'm confident we could work out the details if you feel I am the right candidate for the position."
  
  
• BEWARE - negative remarks or criticism of a former employer is ALMOST SURE
  to hurt you. Be prepared to explain your job changes without criticism of
  the company and management. Be as positive as possible when discussing the
  reason for leaving your current job.
  
  
• At the end of the conversation ask about a date for an interview at the
  employer's location. Make sure that you have dates in mind concerning when
  you can be available. Be as flexible as possible with the employer concerning these dates.