Now that you have applied for a position you need to prepare for your upcoming phone interview. Here are some things that you need to do to prepare.

• Research the company
• Review the job description
• Research behavioral interview questions
• Rehearse your interview

Begin by reviewing the research you have already conducted on the prospective company. Has any of the information changed? Has the organization undergone any restructuring? Have they had any lay-offs or union organization? These are all details that may be discussed during your phone interview.

After reviewing the job description, jot down any relevant questions. Are the job duties clear and concise? Is the work schedule detailed? Are flex hours an option? If you have extenuating circumstances that require you to work earlier or later than the normal work hours- please address that during your phone interview. For example, if you are responsible for picking up your child from school on Tuesday’s for baseball practice, mention that during your conversation. Or if you just prefer to beat the traffic, ask about the options.

The next step is to Google behavioral interview questions related to the job description. This should provide you with various practice interview questions for the phone interview and your potential face-to-face interview. Pick 5 to 7 questions for review.  Generally questions are separated into various categories. Each category is used to gage details about how you deal with conflict, work as a part of a team and how you prioritize not only your time but projects.

Make sure that you dedicate some time to rehearsing your phone interview. If you are using a cell-phone for your phone interview, make sure that you will be in an area that has good reception. You also want to make sure that you are in a quiet area.  Rehearse your answers to these questions with a friend. Take the time to gather your thoughts prior to answering the question. Remember this is not a race. Rehearse until your feel comfortable with your responses.

If it’s easier, jot down the answers to your questions. Or write down specific examples or clues that will help you jog your memory as you are speaking with the employer.

You will begin to feel more comfortable the more you practice this process.  Try to keep your responses detailed yet short.  Once you begin to understand the purpose of the phone interview you will be able to move through the process like a breeze.

These details should aide you in the process of moving from a phone interview to a face-to-face interview.

Good Luck!!

TJ