When, according to Mrs. Hammer, is the phone interview likely to take place?

M: This is 9:00 GMT and welcome to Occupation World. Today, we’re going to focus on telephone interviews. Nowadays, employers use telephone interviews as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. So we invite Mrs. Hammer, the job counselor at Toronto University. She has had many years of experience helping students finding satisfactory jobs and she has talked with perhaps thousands of employers about their expectation of potential employees. Good morning, Mrs. Hammer.
W: Good morning. It’s a pleasure being here and thank you for giving me this opportunity talking on your show.
M: Now, Mrs. Hammer, can you tell us something about phone interviews?
W: Yes. (1) Phone interviews are used often to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as a way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates.
M: Hmm. It sounds like that more and more employers are likely to take this kind of interviews when they seek for the right talents. So, what should the job seekers do to get ready for the phone interviews?
W: While they’re actively searching for a job, it’s important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment’s notice. You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk.
M: That’s true. I guess after the show, a lot of job seekers probably would spend more time waiting in front of the telephones or keep their mobile phones on 24 hours a day.
W: I hope they won’t get too nervous just waiting for the call. After all, they should prepare for a phone interview just as they would for a regular interview. Compile a list of their strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about their background and skills.
M: That’s right. What else should they do?
W: Keep their resume in clear view, on the top of their desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it’s at their fingertips when they need to answer questions. They should also have a short list of their accomplishments available to review.
M: So they can answer the interviewers’ questions without hesitation.
W: Yes, and have a pen and paper handy for note taking. Also they may want to turn call-waiting off so the interview won’t be interrupted. (2) If the time is really inconvenient, ask if they could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.
M: Inconvenient time? What do you mean?
W: Such moments as their kids are crying or their dogs keep on barking.
M: I see. The stereo and the TV can also become distractions. Maybe they should close the door so that they can have a quiet phone conversation.
W: Yes. Unless you’re sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line. Talking on the phone isn’t as easy as it seems. I’ve always found it’s helpful to practice. (3) Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so they can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work. Also rehearse answers to those typical questions that will be asked.
M: Good advice. A lot of people have this or that kind of small habits talking on the phone. Like sometimes I can hear people chewing gums or eating while on the phone. Surely, the employers won’t enjoy that kind of experience.
W: That’s for sure. I also suggest the interviewees keep a glass of water handy, in case they need to wet their mouth. They should also smile. You may think that the person at the other end of the line won’t see you. So why smile? But smiling will change the tone of your voice. Speaking slowly and pronouncing clearly can also give the listener a good feeling.
M: How should they address the interviewers?
W: Use the person’s title, that is, Mr. or Ms. and their last name. Only use a first name if they ask you to. Don’t interrupt the interviewer. Give short and precise answers. Small things can make big differences.
M: Yes, you’re right. What else?
W: (4) Take the time—it’s perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts. Remember the goal is to set up a face-to-face interview. After they thank the interviewer ask if it would be possible to meet in person.
M: So, after the interview, what the job seekers can do is just waiting for further notice?
W: No. (5) They should take notes about what they were asked and how they answered. Of course you don’t want to give different answers at a face-to-face interview. Finally, a thank-you note which reiterates your interest in the job will be nice.
M: Thank you again, Mrs. Hammer, for your advice. Next week, we’re going to talk about face-to-face interviews.
W: You’re welcome. Goodbye.