Back To Top

How to Ace Your Next Phone Interview: A Complete Guide

Great news – you’ve landed a phone interview! This first conversation can open doors to your next big opportunity. More and more companies are using phone interviews to get to know candidates better, so it’s worth taking some time to get ready for that important call. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the job market or have years of experience under your belt – nailing this conversation could be your ticket to the next round.

Preparation: Your Secret Weapon

Just like meeting face-to-face, you’ll want to know your stuff before the phone interview starts. Jump on the company’s website and social media to see what they’re about. Take another look at that job posting too – what skills are they looking for, and how do yours match up? While you’re at it, check out:

  • What other people are saying about working there
  • The kinds of questions they typically ask
  • What the pay looks like
  • What matters most to them as a company

A job candidate in a quiet setting, ensuring the perfect environment for a successful phone interview.

Leverage the Hidden Advantages

Here’s a cool thing about phone interviews – you can have everything you need right in front of you! Set yourself up for success by:

  • Having the company’s website open
  • Keeping your notes where you can see them
  • Sticking your resume on the wall (seriously, it works!)
  • Having Google ready for those curveball questions
  • Just remember to keep the keyboard quiet if you’re taking notes

Setting the Stage for Success

Where you take the call really matters. If you can use a landline, great. If not, make sure you’ve got good cell service. Either way:

  • Turn off those pesky notifications
  • Find somewhere quiet
  • Make sure you can talk normally without whispering
  • Pick a spot where no one will bug you
  • Test your phone ahead of time

A professional conducting a phone interview, showcasing the importance of clear communication and preparation.

Professional Etiquette Matters

Answer with your name – it just sounds better than “hello.” And here’s a trick: smile while you talk. It sounds weird, but it makes your voice sound friendlier. Remember:

  • Talk clearly
  • Go with the flow of the conversation
  • Keep things positive
  • Make sense when you explain things
  • Ask what happens next
  • Send a quick thank-you email after

When you’ve got these basics down, you’ll be in great shape to move on to meeting in person.

Want to Really Stand Out in Your Next Interview?

Looking to boost your job prospects? We get it. At Academy of Learning Career College, we help students across our numerous Canadian campuses learn the stuff that actually matters in the real world. Check out what’s available near you – we’ve got programs that fit your schedule and won’t break the bank. Find out more today!