HCA West Florida Recruiters

Tips For A Successful Phone Interview

As an Allied Health Recruiter for HCA’s West Florida Division, I spend a majority of my day reviewing resumes and conducting phone interviews with candidates from across the country.  Historically, phone interviews have proven to be an effective selection tool that allows Recruiters to meet with more candidates in a shorter period of time.  Companies are containing costs when it comes to travel expenses related to interviews.  We are also seeing a move to conducting a series of phone interviews before moving candidates to the onsite interview stage.  With this said, I am surprised at how many candidates treat a phone interview as a “social chat” versus the opportunity to make a great first impression. 

Here are some tips to prepare for your next phone interview to help maximize your opportunity:

• Prepare for the phone interview.  Make a note of the positions you have applied for along with the job postings and place it near your phone for easy access.  When a Recruiter contacts you, the information about the company or position is then readily available.  There have been times when I have contacted a candidate and their response has been, “I have applied to so many positions.  Who are you again?”  In addition, take notes during the phone interview.  Important information about the position can be shared during the call.  These details could be very helpful if you move to the next stage of the interview process.
• Give concise answers.  Most of the questions that are asked are standard in nature.  Listen closely to the question and try to stay on topic.  Some candidates wander off onto other subjects, and don’t answer the original question.
• Put some energy into your voice.  Recruiters cannot see your gestures or facial expressions on the phone.  So, we rely on your words and tone of voice to convey meaning.  It makes a world of difference if you a smile and put some energy in your voice.  This can help you to sound professional and enthusiastic about the opportunity.  Also, stand up and use your hands freely as you talk.  Your speech actually sounds different when your body is confined.   

Overall, Recruiters want to assist you in finding the right job opportunity.  If the phone interview was successful, we will convey that feedback to the Hiring Managers.  “I’m really excited for you to meet John.  He sounded great on the phone.  John was articulate and really understood the needs of the position.  He was very pleasant to speak with.  I think you’re going to enjoy meeting with him.”  Who wouldn’t want to have that type of introduction to a potential boss?

© 2010 Recruiting at HCA West Florida.