Telephone Interview Preparation
 
Phone interviewing is unique.  You can’t count on visual stimuli, such as body language, to help you give or read signals.  Both strengths and weaknesses, as conveyed by voice, are magnified through the phone.  Keep the interviewer’s attention focused on your conversation by smiling during the discussion.  A smile over the phone translates into animation sensed by the listener.  You need to sound like a winner quickly to sustain the listener’s interest in you.  Follow these steps for a successful telephone interview:

Have the following tools handy:

• A copy of the version of the resume sent your recruiter to the interviewer;
• A note pad and pen;
• Carefully worded questions you want to ask;
• The research you have done on the company; 
• A calendar or your scheduler.

Interview Preparation

If you will be driving to the interview, try a test drive to determine roughly how long the trip will take, then leave at least 15 minutes earlier than necessary.

Research the company, using the following as sources:

• Trade magazines and news paper articles;
• The Internet; (Company website, google/yahoo News, Blogs, user groups)
• Company employees;
• Customers of the company;

Remember that you are also interviewing your prospective employer.  Prepare a list of questions regarding the goals and objectives of the position, the goals and objectives of the company, and any other information that is important for you to make an informed decision.

Plan in advance what to wear.  Even if you know the office observes a casual or business casual dress code, dress in business attire.
          
Check these items off as you add them to your briefcase:

References

• The names, home and work phone numbers, company, and title of two former managers and two internal or external customers work well.
  
• Consult with the references for their approval prior to the interview.

Resume

Your Portfolio including samples of your work, if possible.  Never discuss or show proprietary information.  Also include copies of any newspaper articles in which you were mentioned or which you authored.

Research you have done on the company.

Your recruiter’s phone number to give immediate feedback after the interview.

The Face-2-Face Interview

• Your recruiter will prepare you for the expected chain of events, but you’ll need to be flexible.
  
• Shake hands firmly and maintain eye contact with each interviewer.
  
• Maintain a high energy level. 
  
• Do not smoke anywhere on company grounds.
  
• Ask questions.  This is where you can exhibit the research you have done. Lead the questions with a phrase similar to “I see your last quarter’s revenues are up by 12%.  How did you accomplish the change?”
  
• Remember that everyone gives feedback.  Be polite to secretaries, receptionists, and all administrative staff.
  
• Sell yourself!  Without being overbearing, blow your own horn.
  
• Under no circumstances say anything that can be construed as derogatory or negative about prior jobs or employers.
  
• Collect business cards from everyone.  They will provide the information you need to send thank-you letters.