Guiding Steps to Your Career: Quick Tips for Phone Interviews
By Jennifer Heth and Karen Graham, Senior Recruiters

Many companies, including Sodexo, utilize phone interviews as an initial step in the interview process, as well as during other points in the process.

Job seekers should take phone interviews as seriously as face-to-face interviews since employers often use the phone interview as a way to narrow down the candidate pool. Being well prepared will help a job seeker to know what questions to ask during the interview, determine if the opportunity is right for him or her, and gain an edge in moving forward in the interview process.

Before the phone interview:

• Always print or save a copy of the job description for each position you apply to. Most employers do not keep their jobs posted on the Internet indefinitely, so you may not be able to go back online to find a copy.
• Research the company. Knowing the basics will allow you to articulate why you would like to work for that company, what skills and experiences you have that might benefit the company, and allow you to formulate better questions during the phone interview.
• Review your resume. Ensure that you are able to speak to how your skills and experience relate to the position you have applied for.
• Practice, practice, practice. It may be helpful to do a mock interview over the phone with a friend or relative to help you prepare.

During the phone interview:

• Select a quiet place and ensure that you will have good phone reception.
• Have a copy of your resume handy but do not read off your resume.
• Ask questions about the position and the company that show you have done some research about the organization.
• Understand the next steps in the interview process and an approximate timeframe for when you should expect to hear back.

After the phone interview:

• Although not required, you may wish to send a follow-up thank you e-mail message (or mail a thank you card) to the interviewer.
• Follow up promptly to any requests from the company for you to complete an employment application, send references, etc.
• If you do not hear back after one to two weeks, it is appropriate to contact the recruiter for an update. However, due to the high volume of applicants that many companies have, please maintain your patience throughout the process.

Good luck with your interviews!