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Employers typically use a phone interview to gain additional insight before deciding whether a candidate will be brought in for further interviews. Since phone interviews are even more unfamiliar than face-to-face interviews, many students feel nervous about them, but in reality they can be a great experience if you learn how to manage them.

In a typical face-to-face interview, you don't have the opportunity to look at any materials that may have helped you prepare, but in a phone interview, you can have everything you need right in front of you. Think of it as taking an open book exam in one of your classes.

The most critical strategy for succesfully navigating the phone interview is to make sure you are prepared. If a recruiter calls and tries to interview you on the spot, let him/her know that you have a conflict (class, work, etc) and give them some times that you are available to talk. Don't wait too long, they may move on to another candidate. Remember to write down the recruiter's name, company, and phone number in case you need to get back to them, and clarify if they are calling you back or if it's up to you to contact them at the specified date and time.

Tips for Phone Interviews

• Be in a private, comfortable location where you are unlikely to be interrupted.
• Have in front of you:
  • Pen and paper
  • The job description and the resume and cover letter that you sent
  • A list of your skills and accomplishments, with examples
  • Research you've done on the company
  • A short list of questions about the job and company
  • Your calendar
• Smile - it comes through in your voice.
• Stand up - your voice may sound stronger.
• Avoid saying "ah, er, um." This habit is more noticeable on the telephone.
• Listen carefully to what the interviewer is saying. Ask for clarification if necessary.
• Find out what the next steps are so you can follow-up.
• Let them know that you would like to meet with them personally.
• Send a thank you note after the interview.