Interview Tips: Surviving the Phone Interview

The Phone Interview is the absolutely most difficult interview because you have to “sell yourself” over the phone without the benefit of interaction with the potential employer. You will not be able to see their expression or read their body language yet this call will determine if you will be invited to a face to face. It is important to exude energy as that is a key ingredient to being invited to the next step in the interview process.

 Be sure that you have a quiet, private place for the interview — no interruptions, no distractions. It is critical to stay focused during the entire call.
Above all else — you must project high energy, enthusiasm, and a genuine DESIRE to want to work for the company. Do not play “hard to get” — this hardly ever works. Be sure there is always a “smile in your voice”.  Research and be able to community WHY you want to work for this company.  Your focus is being hired by THIS company – not just take the first job offer made.
Be prepared and already have your answers ready for the following questions:
a.   Why do you want to work for them? (show off your knowledge of the company here / growth is a big keyword)
b.   Why did you leave your last job? (stay positive!)
c.   At your last job, what exactly were your Sales / Food Cost % / Labor % / Profit % / Turnover %.
d.   What is your best quality as a manager? What is your biggest opportunity as a manager?
e.   How would your former boss / crew describe you?
f.   What are your career goals in 6 months / 3 years / 5 years?
g.   Why would we want to hire you?
You want to be talkative — absolutely no one-word answers! You also don’t want to go on for more than a minute or two with one answer.  Converse as much as possible to build the relationship with the person that is interviewing you.
Try to stay relaxed – go through this article long before your interview, then relax prior to the interview. Don’t “study” — just go through the information, and it will come back to you. Make sure your phone ringer is on and your phone is near you at all times from 15 minutes prior to the time to 30 minutes past the time.
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What Clients Say About Patrice & Associates

  • Chris Bousquet is Invaluable!

    I want to express my deepest gratitude for the support and guidance provided by Patrice & Associates during my job search. I was greatly impressed by the professionalism and commitment of your team in helping me find the right job opportunity.  In particular, I would like to highlight the invaluable assistance provided by Chris Bousquet, who stood by my side every step of the way in the search and interview process. His dedication and expertise were instrumental in achieving a successful transition to my new position.

     

    Once again, thank you for your assistance and commitment to my professional career. I wish you and the Patrice & Associates team continued success in your work.

     

    Sincerely,

    Miguel Pulla

    Chris Bousquet is Invaluable!
  • Clint Carpenter's standards of Recruiting are TOP NOTCH!

    To begin, Clint Carpenter was the ONLY recruiter I didn't get a generic template e-mail from. He actually took the time to look at my complete resume. In the first few days we spoke, he really took the time in our conversations to get to know what was important to me in a future job as well as what I knew I did not want. He checked in with me every day, whether it was to help coach me for an interview or just follow up if I'd gotten feedback. When I finally did get the offer I wanted, there was a snag and the paperwork with the company was delayed by 2 weeks. It was incredibly frustrating, but Clint called or texted me EVERY single day to encourage me and make sure I was ok as well as doing whatever he could from his end to help facilitate the paperwork. I never felt like I was alone in the job search process. Clint is professional, positive and you can tell he genuinely loves helping people. I would recommend him to anyone!!!!    

    Lethr' Rothert

    Clint Carpenter's standards of Recruiting are TOP NOTCH!
  • Dave took the time to get to know ME, who I am, my experience and my goals

    Dave Evens has been working with me these past couple months as I transition from a restaurant owner toward a corporate environment.  Along with this, I'm relocating from TN to NY.  I feel that he was able to capture my unique experience in the updated resume he created for me.  Dave was great with communicating options and feedback from all sources. It was a true pleasure to work with him.  While we were unable to find a good fit for me, I am blown away by Dave's approach and enthusiasm.  I found a great job, on my own, but I do not feel that reflects poorly on Dave nor Patrice & Associates. When, again, I enter my next job search, I will be sure to reach out to Dave first!

    Sincerely,

    Neil Archibald

    Dave took the time to get to know ME, who I am, my experience and my goals
  • Mike Buterbaugh is genuine and caring

    I honestly didn't know what to expect from Patrice & Associates. Upon my first time speaking with Mr. Mike Buterbaugh, I was instantly put at ease with his genuine approach to helping me find the best fit for me overall in my next career decision. Not only did he coach me on how to drastically improve my resume, he also had me an interview within a couple of days. I have never had an experience quite like this during a job search, but I would definitely give 5 stars to this company and their recruiting team. I have gained a new career that not only met my salary expectations, but balances with my personal life as well. Thanks again for your help, and although I don't plan to be on a search again, if the need arises, they will definitely be my first point of contact.

    Eula

    Mike Buterbaugh is genuine and caring
  • Patrice & Associates Video Client TestimonialsClint Carpenter was wonderful!

    I worked with Clint Carpenter on getting a job. Clint did an amazing job helping me with my resume, walking me through the process and giving me help and interview tips.  He was in communication with me everyday about what was going on and keeping me in the know. I would call on Clint again if I ever needed him!  

    Gary Summers

    Clint Carpenter was wonderful!