These days, many companies (especially in the ITES sector) use the telephonic interview as a tool in the recruitment process. A telephonic interview involves a phone call in which the recruiter asks the candidate to answer a series of basic questions that help him/her in making a decision about the face-to-face interview. If you fail at the telephonic interview, that's it. It essentially means that you are out of the race and will definitely NOT be hired, or even interviewed. So though it may seem trivial, it really is a very important part of the whole recruitment process.
Tips For Success At Telephonic Interviews
A telephonic interview should not be taken lightly. It is a method of screening out "less suitable" candidates and you do not wish to be amongst the ones being screened out, right? So you need to prepare well for the telephonic interview. Here's how...
Be Ready: Whether or not you have an appointment for the telephonic interview, you should be ready for it. This means that your resume should be near your telephone, or in a place where you can get it within a second. Needless to say, the resume should also be updated and well written. You may need to refer to it to answer certain questions.
Don't Chew On It: Though you don't need to dress up for a telephonic interview, you should make sure that you sound smart, professional and AWAKE. You should not be eating anything during the interview. If you eat while being interviewed, you can stop expecting another call from this company.
Take The Call: If you miss this very important phone call, there is little chance of them calling you again. Face it, you are just one in a group of gazillion candidates. So whatever happens, take the call.
Background Noise: When you get the call, turn off all background noises like the radio, television etc. If possible, shut yourself in a room for this interview. Background noises indicate lack of professionalism and interest.
Be Polite: Speak respectfully to the interviewer and do not jump to a first name basis unless asked to. NEVER interrupt your interviewer. If you do this more than once in the same conversation, your chances have been ruined.
Be Concise: Give short and precise answers to the questions. If there's a question they wish to hear in detail about, they will tell you so.
Do Not Digress: Don't forget that it is an interview and should be taken seriously. So when speaking, stick to the question at hand and avoid referring to stories about your life etc.
Manner Of Speaking: Keep your words and tone very professional. You should speak at a moderate speed. Speaking too fast may make it difficult for your interviewer to understand you. Speaking too slow may make you sound like a moron. Neither is good for you!
If you cannot be available for the telephonic interview at a certain time, it is best to let the company know beforehand. It is rude to say so when you get "the call". Remember, this is your first chance to create an impression. Go for it!
