Telephone Interview

Telephone interviews are real interviews held over the phone, often used for sales positions and to screen applicants before bringing them into the office to interview in person.

If you’re applying for a job abroad (for example, the media scene in Dubai is really heating up) an initial phone interview is a certainty.

Most telephone interviews last less than half an hour so are time and cost-effective for both you and the employer.

They are often fact-based but may also include behavioural or situational questions (see first interview guide). Either way, they test your verbal communication skills and telephone technique – essential skills for a job in media sales.

Don’t let this daunt you though, just keep calm, relaxed and listen carefully.

Giving yourself the best chance to succeed

If a call comes at an unexpected time, it’s fine to arrange a more convenient time for the call – and far more professional than trying to answer at the side of a motorway.

Take this decision promptly at the start of the call, panicking and trying to reschedule 5 minutes into the conversation - because actually you can't concentrate when your nan is watching Eastenders with the volume on 99 - will not go down so well.

Make sure you’re somewhere quiet where you won’t be disturbed and can take notes.

Sit up properly at a table if you can, laying on your bed or even slouching on a sofa will affect your voice and your ability to concentrate more than you realise.

Make sure you’ve got a glass of water and some tissues at the ready, it’s surprising how quickly your throat can dry up (and science has now proven that sneezes are caused by evil gremlins that like to strike at the ugliest of times…)

Take your time

If you missed something, ask the interviewer to repeat it - don't waffle or guess what they said - you wouldn't do this in person.

Don't be scared of silences and don't feel obliged to always fill them.  Your interviewer may be engrossed reviewing questions or making notes and hasn't realised that it's been quiet for a few seconds - don't suddenly ruin their impression of you by blustering and blabbering away when you've been succinct and clear throughout.

SMILE - they can't see it but they will be able to hear it and you'll benefit from the feel-good chemicals that a big grin will release.

For more ideas on managing a phone call to your advantage, read Building Desire in the Technical Sales Skills section of the kit bag.