Workplace

It used to be that job candidates could “breeze through” phone interviews quickly by answering “a few softball questions,” said Sarah Needleman in The Wall Street Journal. But now that employers are faced with piles of qualified applicants, a phone interview can be more than just a formality. These days, it’s often a one-hour affair loaded with “the kinds of in-depth questions previously reserved for finalists.” That means you’ll want to prepare for it with the same diligence that you’d approach a face-to-face interview.

When it’s time for the interview, lock yourself in a quiet room armed with such “essentials” as your résumé and the company’s background information, said Joyce Lain Kennedy in The Hartford Courant. Remember to turn off the call-waiting feature. “Interruptions are unprofessional and show that details get away from you.” Make a conscious effort not to ramble, which is easy to do on the phone. Pithy, positive answers can be the difference between getting cut or getting another call back. If an interviewer calls you without advance warning, don’t try to improvise. “Say you have to leave immediately for an appointment, and pleasantly ask if you can you reschedule.”

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