Today companies prefer to conduct their initial job interviews over the phone. Not only is this option incredibly convenient, it is also a useful screening method that allows employers to pick out the best candidates early in the hiring process. For this reason, it becomes crucial for job seekers to do well on their phone interviews. They need to make a clear first impression so they can qualify for the next interviewing step: the actual, face-to-face Interview. Preparing yourself accordingly, researching the company you are applying for, exuding confidence, avoiding interview pitfalls and adopting a positive attitude are all key factors for a successful interview—but the one technique you really need to master is how to answer phone interview questions effectively.
Phone Interview – The Most Common Problem…
Many people have trouble with phone interviews because it requires quick thinking. Sometimes panic can also get in the way, easily choking up job seekers who are not sure what to say. Remember, a simple hesitation in your response can make the hiring manager think you are not the one they are looking for, thus reducing your chances of getting picked for the job. In order to avoid undesirable situations like this, you have to learn the proper and efficient responses that will impress your potential employer.
Commonly Asked Questions in a Phone Interview
One way that you can ace your interview is by having a set of questions commonly asked by employers in your industry. When you are aware of the basic questions, you’ll be able to respond with more confidence instead of being nervous when a hiring manager asks you something during the call. You can attain these questions by searching online or asking friends and family who work in the industry in question. Please review the following commonly asked questions that seem to appear in phone interviews in most industries and practice answering them ahead of time:
- Tell me about yourself?
Although managers may already know about you through your resume, they still often ask this one so they can hear you talk and get a sense of your personality. To answer this, come up with a thirty-second bio describing yourself and your past work experiences. - What do you know about our company?
Hiring officers ask this to see if a candidate made the effort to research the company they are applying for. It will be a tremendous advantage for you if you know what the company does, who their target market and competitors are, and what marketing strategies they use. - Why are you interested in working for us?
State the reasons why you want to be a part of the company. It can be that you are looking for a place that provides excellent opportunities for you to improve yourself; you are interested in working in that particular industry and the like. Make it clear that you want to be part of their team but DON’T sound desperate. - We have many candidates for this position. Why do you think we should hire you? What edge do you have over other applicants?
This is your chance to explain what unique skills you have that would make you a wonderful addition to their team. Talk about your special abilities, work ethic, professionalism, reliability and a willingness to learn new things. Distinguish yourself from other candidates so that the interviewer will see you as the right fit for the job.
An Ultimate Guide to Job Interview Answers
Bob Firestone has prepared an ultimate guide to Job Interview Answers. This guide contains 177 proven answers to job interview questions along with all the best tips and techniques you can use to ace your preliminary telephone interview with ease. Follow the guide carefully and soon you’ll master the art of telephone interviews (and face-to-face interviews) that will help you land that job you’ve always wanted!
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