More often then not, the first interview has become a telephone interview. Human Resources is getting so many resumes for every open job that they can’t possibly interview every candidate that applies, so they have gone to a 15 minute phone interview or phone screen to screen out the candidates that aren’t qualified and move forward with those that are. Some people think phone interviews are easier than in-person ones. Often, those people are wrong.
In person, it’s easy to tell if an interviewer is tuning you out if you notice them staring off into space or sending text messages on their phone. On the phone, you and the interviewer are missing out on important visual cues. You can’t read the interviewer’s body language.
So, how can a job seeker really tell if the interviewer is bored, distracted or under whelmed?
Find a quiet space
In the absence of sight, hearing becomes sharper. And interviewers can easily hear distraction over the phone.
Once you’ve scheduled a phone interview, locate a calm, quiet place where you can focus. Make sure you’re not near a computer, TV or anything that will draw your attention away from the interview. Tell anyone who has access to the space that you are not to be disturbed under any circumstances.
Next, have a pen and paper handy to take notes during your interview. You should also have a copy of your resume so that when the interviewer refers to your experience, you can both be on the same page.
Speak Easy
As soon as you answer the phone, you’re on!
You want to start your phone interview off right. And, because the interviewer can’t see you, she’s listening even more carefully.
Make a conscious effort to sound upbeat and enthusiastic.
Smile. Interviewers can hear you smile — and smiling can put you in a better state of mind.
Stand up and walk back and forth. Standing can make your voice sound more powerful.
And always remember to breathe. It will help you stay calm and sound more relaxed.
Listen
A phone interview isn’t just about speaking. It’s about listening.
To listen carefully, try closing your eyes when the interviewer is speaking so you can focus on what is being said.
This technique can also help you read the interviewer’s mood. Is he interested and enthusiastic, or bored and distracted? Is the interview conversational? Are questions and answers flowing easily?
Listen hard after your responses. Did your response prompt additional questions or make the interviewer hesitate?
If the interviewer seems distracted, use one of the powerful questions you were saving for the “Do you have any questions?” section of the interview. A well-chosen question can re-engage him/her and put the interview back on track.