There may be times when you need to do your job interview over the phone.  Don’t make the mistake of thinking that a phone interview is any less formal than an interview that is conducted in person.  This could be one critical mistake you make that could cost you that job you really want.  Many times a phone interview is your way of securing a meeting that is face to face.  Phone interviews are one way that recruiters often narrow down their list of potential people to talk to.  You want to pass the phone interview with flying colors so that you make it to the next round.

There are some specific things that you can do to make sure that you score high in the phone interview.  The first thing that you need to do is eliminate or minimize the number of distractions that can occur while you’re on the phone. 

This includes even subtle noises such as your dog barking, your cell phone ringing, or someone in the background who is doing the dishes.  Try to schedule your phone interview in a quiet place so that you don’t have to fight against distractions.  You need to be as focused as you can be so that you can concentrate on the answers to the questions that you’re asked.

Make sure that your verbal skills are good.  You won’t have the luxury of looking into your interviewer’s eyes so you need to rely on other ways to leave a lasting impression.  Your voice should reflect your enthusiasm for the interview but at the same time you should maintain your professionalism by using language that is grown up and precise.  Avoid using words that a teen would use such as “cool” or “dude”. 

Prepare as much in advance for your phone interview as you can.  You’ll want to have a resume on hand that you can refer to as well as a notepad so that you can write down information that is given to you by your interviewer.  The one good thing about a phone interview is that your interviewer will have no idea when or not you’re using your notes.

You’ll want to follow up on your phone interview in a few days to see how you did.  Send a thank you note so that you can highlight your selling points as a new employee.  Exude as much confidence as you can so that you’ll be considered for that second interview that will be done face to face.