Telephone interviews are question-and-answer exchanges between two people (an interviewer and an interviewee) who speak professionally about a specific topic such as job qualifications. They are typically scheduled in advance for a given time.
Types
There are many types of phone interviews, most of which vary by purpose. The job interview via phone is most common, particularly for contract workers, telecommuters and freelancers. Focus group participants are also often pre-screened for focus group eligibility via phone conversation. Phone interviews are also helpful for journalists writers, or radio show hosts interested in interviewing someone for an on-air or print publication.
Function
Phone interviews are often used to pre-screen candidates for a second-level interview. Most companies are not interested in working with indecisive personnel or people who have poor phone communication skills. Phone interviews can limit travel time and expense for both parties involved. Using a standard set of questions, interviewers can interview more people per day if they choose to utilize the phone instead of in-person interviews.
Time Frame
Depending on the type of interview or the level of the job one is being interviewed for, phone interviews can take anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours. Most interviewers indicate how long the interview will take when the phone interview is set up or when the phone interview begins. Just as with in-person meetings and interviews, phone interviews can run over, so it is best to allow yourself some extra time. This is particularly important for those with children and pets who interview from a home phone.
Features
Phone interviews usually consist of separate phases, starting with an introduction initiated by the interviewer. The interviewer typically sets the tone of the conversation at this point, asking the interviewee to speak a bit about himself, his hobbies, interests, and work experience. Phone interviews tend to place emphasis on verbal communication and thought-based questions such as "what was the most challenging situation you encountered when dealing with a customer and how did you resolve it?" In these instances interviewers are typically looking for honest, direct answers and specific examples.
Considerations
Phone interviews focus heavily on the interviewee's ability to communicate effectively using words. When giving or receiving a telephone interview, always use a professional tone and consider word choices carefully. Speak naturally and be sure to vary the tone of your voice slightly to avoid sounding monotonic.
Because the interviewer and interviewee cannot see one another during a phone interview, both parties may dress in whatever makes them feel most comfortable for the interview. For some this might still mean having to dress up and sit at a desk or in another professional environment to get into the right mindset; others would rather do the phone interview in their pajamas. Interviewees should prepare for a phone interview just as they might for a regular interview -- have a prepared resume at hand and practice before the interview.
Warning
Due to the potential for disconnection, it is not advisable to participate in a phone interview using a mobile phone. If possible, use a land line. Do not eat, drink, chew gum or make any potentially noticeable noises while on the phone. Your environment should be free of sound.
