According to Manpower, a phone interview is the first step for employers to assess the candidate's suitability before a face-to-face interview. Due to not interviewing directly, many candidates are subjective and make small mistakes to lose opportunities.
Manpower experts outline 5 mistakes to avoid and how to handle them so that candidates are always proactive and professional in all situations.
Lack of careful preparation
Not carefully researching the company, application location or not preparing a self- introduction is a common mistake that makes you feel less serious. Even if it is just a short call, preparation still shows your proactive spirit of learning and professional attitude.
You must spend time researching the job description in advance, taking notes about the company, identifying important skills of the position and practicing to be proficient in introducing yourself briefly and clearly.
Noisy space, phone signal, weak internet
unclear noise due to loud noises or poor call quality makes it difficult for both you and the employer to concentrate, affecting the entire discussion. You should choose a quiet space with stable phone signal. If it is not convenient, proactively ask for an appointment change to ensure call quality.
Saying too much or too little
Speaking too much can make the listener uncomfortable, speaking too little makes you feel less confident. Voice is an important factor in phone interviews when there is no supporting body language.
Pay attention to adjusting your voice and volume to be polite and easy to listen to.
Repeated, unfocused answers
Speaking publicly, not going straight to the problem makes it difficult for employers to grasp real capacity. The lack of response structure also causes scores to drop even though you have a lot to share.
You should take note of important questions and prepare the main ideas to be raised.
End of unprofessional calls
You have spent time on the interview, so don't leave a bad impression just because the call ended suddenly. A thank you and a question about the next steps shows courtesy and seriousness with your work.
Before it's over, thank the employer and show your interest by gently asking about the next step in the process.
