How to prepare for a phone interview

Q: I have been scheduled for a phone interview with a prospective employer. What should I expect and how should I prepare?

A: Organizations often will schedule an interview over the phone to help them get to the next step. In many cases, this is referred to as a “phone screen”, and is conducted by a recruiter to determine if you are “in the ballpark”. The recruiter has already seen your resume and perhaps already researched you online. Questions asked are those which might not automatically be included in a cover letter or resume, such as salary requirements and your availability. In preparation, set aside a quiet space to take the call and have your resume on hand as reference. Try to convey enthusiasm about the job and organization, as the nonverbal cues are limited to those in your voice.