Companies are using the phone interview more and more to screen applicants. As a job seeker, the phone interview gives you the chance to make a strong and positive first impression on potential employers.
The phone interview is your first step to securing a personal interview. Dont make the mistake of not being prepared!.
Landing your dream job at Texas State starts with a stellar interview performance. This guide, based on insights from Texas State University’s Career Services, will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to impress your interviewer and secure the position
Preparing for the Big Day
Step 1 Gather Your Arsenal
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Paperwork: Make sure you have copies of your resume, cover letter, and references on hand. Having a professional portfolio to keep these papers in and a pen for taking notes will show that you are ready. Texas State Career Services can help you improve your resume or cover letter. They offer resume review and career counseling.
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Professional Attire First impressions matter! Dress to impress in a conservative suit or dress in neutral colors like navy, black or gray. Opt for a skirt length just above the knee and avoid revealing attire. Complete the look with polished shoes that match your outfit and a limited amount of accessories.
Step 2: Research is Key
- Company Knowledge: Dive deep into the organization’s website to understand its mission, goals, and culture. Analyze the job description and align your experiences, interests, and skills with the position’s requirements. Utilize resources on the Texas State Career Services website and explore links related to your field.
Step 3 Introspection Time
- Strengths & Weaknesses: Be prepared to discuss your strengths, weaknesses, education, work experiences, personal goals, and values. Thoroughly review the job description to anticipate questions about your qualifications, the organization, and how you fit in.
Step 4: Be an Inquisitive Candidate
- Engaging Questions: The questions you ask reveal your interest and preparation level. Prepare a list of questions that demonstrate your genuine interest in the organization and position. Examples include:
- What are the characteristics of a successful employee in this role?
- What are some key challenges I will be expected to solve?
- What is the career progression path for this position, and how are employees evaluated?
- When do you expect to fill this position?
Step 5: Follow-Up is Crucial
- Thank You Note: Express your gratitude for the interview with a brief thank-you letter. Reiterate your interest in the position and highlight why you’re the perfect candidate. If you don’t hear back within a week, follow up with a call to reiterate your enthusiasm.
Boosting Your Interview Performance:
Do:
- Arrive early.
- Maintain good grooming and professional attire.
- Make eye contact and offer a firm handshake.
- Demonstrate good posture and confident communication.
- Be polite, answer questions directly, and express gratitude.
Don’t:
- Be late or appear unprepared.
- Dress inappropriately.
- Avoid eye contact or have weak/overpowering handshakes.
- Slouch or appear nervous.
- Speak too loudly or softly, or be overly passive/active.
- Give overly brief or lengthy answers.
- End the interview without expressing gratitude and enthusiasm.
Mastering Interview Questions:
Behavioral Questions:
These questions aim to understand how you might react in specific situations. Be prepared to share examples of how you handled past challenges or collaborated effectively.
Traditional Questions:
These questions clarify your resume, assess your accomplishments and goals, and evaluate your expectations. Be ready to discuss your strengths, weaknesses, and career aspirations.
Difficult Questions:
Prepare for questions about gaps in your resume or other potentially sensitive topics. Be honest, positive, and demonstrate your eagerness to move forward.
Remember, Texas State Career Services is here to support you every step of the way. Utilize their resources, practice interviews, and career guidance to maximize your interview success and land your dream job at Texas State!
By following these tips and utilizing the resources available, you’ll be well-equipped to impress your interviewer and secure your desired position at Texas State.
During the Phone Interview
- Have a self-confident and enthusiastic voice
- Smile as much as possible. This will create an enthusiastic tone of voice.
- Speak succinctly so that you are not rambling
- Keep the conversation going with prepared questions
- While you’re on the phone, don’t smoke, eat, or chew gum.
- Talk straight into the phone so that you can be heard.
- Do not take other calls while on the phone. Try to turn off call waiting.
- Sit in an upright position or stand while talking. Your voice will sound stronger.
- Avoid nervous habits that will create noise
- Do not interrupt the interviewer
- Pay attention to what is said and asked, and if you need to, ask for more information.
- Let the employer end the interview
- Thank the employer for their time and let them know you’re still interested in the job.
- Figure out what to do next so you can follow up in the right way.
- State that you would like to meet personally
Follow up with the Interviewer
As soon as possible, send a thank-you letter to the interviewer to show how much you appreciate the chance to work for the company. During the interview process, make sure that the hiring process timeline and next steps have been talked over so that you know where you stand.
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FAQ
What is the STAR method when interviewing?
