As students begin to apply for summer internships, many will face phone interviews as a part of the application process.
Having been through a few myself, here are some helpful tips to keep in mind next time you pick up the line:
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Ask the interviewer ahead of time to call you on a land line. This way you won’t have to deal with cell batteries dying or bad reception areas. Even using a hands-free headset can be beneficial.
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If possible, temporarily turn off your call-waiting option so you won’t be distracted by those annoying beeps.
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Have your resume and portfolio handy. It is often difficult to remember details about your past experiences off the top of your head, so having them on paper in front of you will make it easy to talk about. Also, tab important pieces of your work you want to mention, making sure to highlight skills relevant to the position you’re applying for.
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Prepare bullet point notes of answers to commonly asked questions. Can you tell me about yourself? What has been your biggest challenge? What has been your greatest accomplishment? Why do you want this position? Having three to four key points prepared ahead of time will help you stay on track and avoid rambling on.
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However, don’t expect to have an answer ready for every question. Be prepared for the curve ball. I was once asked, “If you were a vehicle, what would you be?” I’ve also heard of interviewers asking you to spell the company’s name. Expect the unexpected and do your homework to learn as much about the company as possible.
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Ask your roommates to keep things quiet for awhile. You can even put a small “Interview in Progress” sign on the outside of your bedroom door.
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If possible, sit at a desk with your computer. In fact, having the company’s Web site up can be helpful in case you need to access fast facts.
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Have water handy. The last thing you want is to go into a frantic coughing spell during your time to shine.
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Always ask a question when given the opportunity. You can ask when they plan to make a final decision, what some job responsibilities are or even what the corporate culture is like. Asking questions shows you aren’t afraid to engage in conversation.
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Send a thank you card. This isn’t just for in-person interviews. An email is acceptable to send, but a handwritten note is still the best gesture. Purchase a card beforehand and send it out immediately after your interview. You never know what a difference it could make.
