Interview Tips: Surviving the Phone Interview

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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.