I have seen people afraid of phone interviews, so don’t worry, it’s completely normal. These days businesses usually recruit remotely using phone interviews, as for most businesses, meeting face-to-face for an interview is presently impossible. 

Because phone interviews are usually brief, you’re under obligation to make the most of your time. It’s more difficult to establish a connection because you can’t see your interviewer’s face or nonverbal cues. And a lack of communication skills might lead to uncomfortable pauses or disruptions.

Below I have included some guidelines and recommendations to help you prepare ahead of time and sound confident during the interview.

1. Make a list of everything you need to know

The first step that I would suggest you write down the necessary information, this includes: 

• When will the phone interview take place?
• Determine who you’ll be communicating with and what is their position?
• From which phone number will they call?
• Any extra contact information you may desire, such as an email address or a primary phone number

If you don’t comprehend something, ask by sending them a text or emailing them your query about the interview. 

2. Do some homework

Prepare as though it were any other interview. Many people believe that a phone interview isn’t as crucial or that they can manage it without difficulty, only to find themselves tripping over their responses and jeopardizing their opportunities.

To begin, read the job requirements to understand more about the position you’re competing for; this will give you an idea of the types of questions the interviewer would ask.

Then conduct some research on the business. Check their site, Search them and follow them on media platforms. Get an understanding of the company’s goals and general atmosphere. This will assist you in tailoring interview responses and proposing insightful questions.

3. Choose a peaceful and comfortable location

This may entail shutting oneself in a room away from friends, family, or children at home. Check and test the place ahead of time to ensure it has everything you need: a comfortable chair, minimum disturbances, and a decent mobile signal.

4. Eliminate distractions

Choosing your best phone interview spot is relative to this. Lock your room door, so your friends or children don’t come wandering in and turn off any alarms and notifications on your devices. If you’re in a public setting, consider looking away from a window to avoid being diverted by passers-by or other activities.

And, most importantly, wear headphones! They’ll reduce background noise, allowing you to concentrate even more on the topic. During your interview, do not eat snacks. Just keep a glass of water beside you if your throat becomes dry.

5. Rehearse the interview 

Preparing responses to phone interview questions that you think your interviewer may ask. After you’ve mastered those, go over these additional typical interview questions and come up with two or three relevant questions that you may ask the interviewer at the conclusion.

However, preparing for a phone interview entails merely formulating responses to common interview questions. It’s also about being able to communicate such responses over the phone. So, if you want to be sure you’re creating the best possible image, call a colleague and have them hear your answers, and be open to any criticism.

6. Make an excellent start

First, let’s go through the basics: Be prepared five minutes before the set time and DO NOT pick up the call late. Start by greeting and giving your introduction; you may also thank them for giving you the opportunity.  Generally, say anything that immediately sets the correct tone. Show the interviewer your level of professionalism and communication abilities by being excited, confident, and not using slang.

7. Maintain flawless behavior 

Don’t get to the point before your interviewer does.  If it sounds appropriate, ask them about their day, well-being or attempt a conversation opener. A small conversation is a friendly and easy approach to keep the good feelings going and bond with your interviewer.

Be professional if you encounter any interruption during the interview, explain the problem, and apologize for any inconvenience.

8. Make the most of the pauses

Due to the inability to meet the interviewer face to face, several awkward social circumstances develop, such as late or repeated responses. So don’t be nervous about pauses; it’s alright to have a small pause during the discussion.

Allow your interviewer to finish speaking before responding, and it’s fine to ask the interviewer to repeat what he just said if you don’t understand. If they interrupt you, take a pause and wait for them to finish before continuing. They’re either having technical difficulties or want to change the subject. Make an effort to integrate with them to understand what you say.

9. Sound excited

The most common blunders in a phone interview do not properly sound lively and enthusiastic. Because the interviewer can’t see you, you’ll put extra effort to demonstrate that you’re excited about the position and the interview.

Use and add emotion to your tone to convey your attitude about the topic. You are permitted to laugh and show your sentiments. 

But make sure you don’t come off as phony. Know how loud you should be to reduce the level if you become too excited. Getting input from friends and practicing can help you narrow things down.

10. Make a list of important points after the interview

After you’ve hung up, take a couple of minutes to scribble down any final notes you wish to memorize. Perhaps they asked you to do something or anything you’d like to follow up on. 

11. Express your gratitude with a thank-you letter

After jotting down important points, on the very same day, send your employer a message. Include important points such as: thanking them for giving you the opportunity, showing your interest in any follow-up interview and the job. Just make sure to keep your message or email brief and to the point.