the Interview Expert 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Newsletter
Greetings!
 
Welcome to your latest issue of the Interview Expert newsletter.

Every issue explores the key elements of a successful job interview and strategic job search techniques - so you can master your skills and land the job you really want!
 
In this issue we discuss the six key steps to mastering a phone interview so you can move to the next step in the hiring process - a face-to-face interview.
The Six Key Steps to Acing Your Next Phone Interview
 
In Phone Interviews: Creating Compelling Connections  you learned how to use your voice to make a powerful and lasting connection. Now, by following these six key steps, you'll ace your next phone interview, move forward in the hiring process and land the job you really want. 

1.  Taking the call

  • When a search consultant, recruiter or researcher calls unexpectedly, resist the urge to put them off.   They're busy making a lot of calls to find qualified candidates.  Putting them off may mean they forget to call you back.  So, take the call right away.  If it turns out the job they're calling about isn't for you, be helpful. Offer the names and phone numbers of people who may be qualified for the position or of people who may know of someone who is qualified. Because you've been helpful, the caller will remember you in a positive way and feel comfortable calling you about other positions that may be more suitable.
  • If the call comes when you're in the midst of something or have time constraints, let the caller know that. Ask how long the call might take. Re-schedule it if necessary.
  • When someone calls to follow up on your application or resum�, ask if it's possible to schedule the call. This will give you time to prepare.
    • Controlling the exact time of the call allows you time to find a quiet space where all your materials are easily accessible.
    • Ask if it's possible to get a copy of the job description before the call. This will help you understand the details of the position so you can prepare thoroughly.
    • Always confirm the callback number, the date and time, the name and title of the person you will be speaking with and who will initiate the call.
 
2.  Use a landline
  • It's important that the interviewer hear you clearly throughout the call and that you understand exactly what the caller says during the conversation. Because cell and wireless phones can cut out from time-to-time or have static, use a landline for a clearer connection. Also, be sure to turn off call waiting and any other service that may be distracting by making beeping sounds, for example.
 
3.  Find a quiet space
  • Tell household members the specific time and expected length of the call. Before taking it, remind them that you are being interviewed on the phone so they do not interrupt accidentally.
  • Keep pets in another room or shut the door so they don't distract you.
 
4.  Keep the following close by:
  • A glass of water
  • Paper and pens for taking notes
  • The job description and/or job ad
  • Your resum� and cover letter
  • Your prepared responses, including your "stories" with the key points highlighted.
 
5.  To sound professional, it helps to:
  • Stand up
  • Speak clearly
  • Smile
  • Dress in interview clothes to achieve a confident, professional manner
  • Avoid chewing gum, coughing or clearing your throat directly into the phone. It's always better to excuse yourself for a minute if necessary.
  • Practice beforehand with friends or family members.
 
6.  Let any silence during conversation just be there
  • This is tough to do when you're on the phone. However, being comfortable with brief silences will keep you from saying things you haven't practiced and really don't want to say.
  • When you do break the silence, ask if the interviewer wants you to expand on anything. If not, ask an appropriate follow-on question.
 
Practicing these steps will help you master your phone interview skills so that you can move to the next step in the hiring process - a face-to-face interview.
 
If you're not sure how you sound in a phone interview, call me now. I'll give you a professional assessment and quickly help you figure out what you can do to make the greatest impact.  At the end of the consultation, you'll be able to hear the difference in how you sound from the other side of the desk.

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Questions?  Comments?  Topics for future newsletters?
Feel free to e-mail us anytime at the Interview Expert newsletter.
 
 
And don't forget to check the Interview Expert blog for more free resources including information on how to answer standard interview questions. 

Can't get past the first interview?
Are you always a close second in the final round?
It could be your interview skills.
 
We help you master the language of results, solutions and outcomes 
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so you can land the job you really want!
 
Sincerely,
 
Heather
 
Heather McNab
the Interview Expert 
 
416-239-4406
[email protected]      
 
Helping top professionals who give their best,
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Learn to Sell Yourself as the Solution
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Personal Branding
Heather
How do you stand out
from the crowd of other job candidates?
 
It's critical to create a solid, market-focused personal branding statement that takes everything about you and makes it everything about them.  
 
This step is so important that I've  designed a special package to help you create one -- fast.  
It's called Make Me Memorable.  We work with you to create your own unique brand so you stand out from the crowd. 
 
And you don't have to wait for your next interview --
do it now, use it now. Dramatically increase
the power of your networking.  
Just click Make Me Memorable to get the details.
 
 
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Interview Skills Assessment
How do your interview skills really stack up?
Find out before your next interview.
 
You can get an objective evaluation of your current interview skills by requesting a professional assessment. 
  • During a 30-minute phone interview, we'll ask you questions that help us assess your current skill level and your preparedness for upcoming interviews. 
  • Within 24-hours, you'll receive a detailed personal report that tells you exactly how you can polish your skills.
The Interview Skills Assessment is available for a discounted fee of $97 plus GST (regular value - $300).  Call 416-239-4406 now to schedule your assessment.