If you're anything like me and feel awkward talking on the phone around others, go somewhere quiet and alone.

Beyond that, I can't help you. I'm terrible over the phone, too.

Do a mock interview with someone. Write up some possible questions that will be asked, give them to a friend or family member, and have them call and interview you.

Take 1-2 seconds to collect your thoughts for every question (more if you need it). Don't feel the need to answer immediately and especially don't fill in the time you think with "ummm" or any similar noise. If you feel the need to put anything before you begin say "Well" then collect your thoughts. Taking time to answer shows that you think before acting and responding, it's looked upon as a good thing typically.

Eliminate the word "like" from your vocabulary as best as you are able (in my day-to-day speech my sentences have at least one "like" in them). Don't go for words or phrases that you aren't entirely sure of the meaning of. This sounds basic, but I've been on the other end of phone interviews and it seems as though people try to use big words to impress; ultimately they look like fools because they use them improperly.

Ultimately, phone interviews suck because most of communication in a normal conversation is non-verbal, and you don't have any of these cues. Just know that everyone has this disadvantage, so you shouldn't be especially worried that you're bad on the phone. Everyone is. Just take your time and focus on what they ask, try not to get nervous. Practice never hurts either.

Eric pretty much summed it up, but I'd like to add in my two cents. I've never had a phone interview, and I'm sure you want to be as professional as possible, but also don't forget who you are. If the mood is light and a laugh is appropriate I'd say go ahead. It makes you seem more real and down to Earth. Treat it almost like a day to day conversation on the phone, but somewhat more serious, because the job is on the line, literally.

You'll do fine I'm sure, good luck



Last Edit: Jan 22, 2010 19:35:44 GMT by Hotshot