Career Services Office
Telephone Interviews
Telephone screening is a cost-effective method for academic departments to eliminate candidates from the search, and it is often used to whittle the field to a short list for the campus visit. You might receive a phone call from a search committee member at any time-either to talk with you independently for a few minutes or to arrange a time for a more prolonged interview with other members of the search committee. As a result, make an effort to be prepared for this phone call - it will help you make a positive first impression. Keep your organized files of application materials near the phone, so that you might quickly recall details about the university and position. If you are not prepared to participate in an interview at the time you receive a call, it is better to try to reschedule than to make a poor first impression. Remember that a phone interview will generally not get you a job - it's an intermediate step on the way to a face-to-face interview.
The following guidelines apply to phone interviews:
Before the Call
- Disable your phone's call waiting feature. If this is not possible, ignore any incoming calls during the interview.
- Eliminate distracting background noise and take the call in a quiet room.
- Have your application materials and list of questions handy for easy reference.
- Have a note pad and pen for note taking.
- Have a glass of water available.
- You might consider dressing professionally for the interview. Believe it or not, it can help you to project a professional demeanor.
During the Call
- Do not use speakerphone.
- Show interest and enthusiasm in your voice. If you smile when you speak, you will sound more upbeat.
- Speak clearly and slowly.
- Offer to send or e-mail any additional information or supporting documentation at the end of the call.
- Conclude the call with an expression of interest in the position and ask about the next step.
- Send a thank you letter after the interview.
