First impressions count! Whether it be in your professional or personal life, I’m sure you can recall a time where you’ve wanted to make a good first impression. In recruitment, first impressions are often formed earlier than many realise.
In today’s current climate (and lockdown 5.0 here in Victoria) first impressions aren’t always made face to face. As a recruiter, telephone interviews are a crucial part of our recruitment methodology to determine which candidates proceed through to a face-to-face interview. This stage of the process is often where first impressions of the candidate are formed. So how do you make a good first impression prior to meeting someone in person? Here are my key tips to nail that phone interview and make a lasting first impression:
⇒ Preparation is key: If you are actively applying for work, be prepared to receive a phone call to discuss your application. If you’re not in a position to talk freely and openly when a recruiter or potential employer contacts you, simply advise the caller of this and make a time to return the call when you’re available to do so. This allows you time to prepare for the call and to be able to answer specific questions relating to it. Minimise your distractions and give the phone interview as much time and concentration as you would a face-to-face interview.
⇒ Track your applications: Don’t underestimate how your ability to recall (or not recall) the role you have applied for impacts your application. Develop a system that works for you to keep track of the roles you are actively pursuing (most online job board apps allow you to save job ads or simply print these out as you go). By having this information at your fingertips, you will be prepared to answer questions about your interest in the role and how your skills are aligned to it. For bonus points, if you’ve already done some research on the company, even better!
⇒ Make the call: If you want to stand out from the crowd, pick up the phone and introduce yourself to the person managing the recruitment process. Be prepared to be asked some basic questions about your skills and experience on the spot, and have some questions ready to ask them too! If you’re ringing just to ask what the process is to apply (and it is detailed in the advertisement), calling can often be to your detriment. So rather than rush the call, take a few moments to ask yourself what is the objective of your call?
⇒ Know your value: Be prepared to provide information on your current salary as well as your salary expectations for your next position. I have found that it’s not uncommon for job seekers to not be able to provide this information in a succinct manner. Some candidates may not actually know what their annual salary is, whether it includes or excludes their superannuation, or what their hourly rate might be (for casuals). This information can be obtained from your current payslip or most recent employment contract, so get your ducks in a row to be able to provide clear and accurate information when required.
⇒ Pay attention: A phone interview is unlike a face-to-face interview where you can pick up on cues from the person you are meeting with and vice versa. So how do you let them know how much you want the role if they can’t see you? You need to be able to generate enthusiasm and energy in your voice to show your desire and interest in the role. Something as simple as smiling whilst talking can change your tone and the energy you bring to the conversation.
⇒ Every interaction counts: It’s important to remember that every touch point forms an impression, including minor details such as how you answer the phone, your voicemail (is it professional?), your email interactions, and how responsive you are in responding to calls and emails. Remember who you are communicating with, and keep it professional. An email to your potential future employer is not the same as an SMS or messaging your friends, so be mindful of the use of slang and ensure correct spelling and grammar. Something as simple as an email to thank the recruiter or hiring manager for their time, or confirming an appointment, only further enhances the impression you make and confirms your genuine desire and interest to pursue the opportunity further.
Above everything else, remember that you never get a second chance to make a first impression! It’s about doing everything in your power to present yourself as a candidate of choice for the role you’ve applied for. If you have any other tips that have worked for you, I’d love to hear about them – feel free to share your tips in the comments section below.
Disclaimer: The material contained in this publication is of a general nature only. It is not, nor is intended to be, legal advice. If you wish to act based on the content of this publication, we recommend that you seek professional advice.
