Thoughts & Opinions

by

Eva Del Rio

A collection of columns

and articles about HR

and the workplace

Why that First Interview-Scheduling Phone Call Matters

Q:  I was scheduling interviews for an open position in our office and was amazed at the number of applicants who seemed unprepared for the call. They were either caught off guard, sounded unprofessional, or had difficulty fitting the interview into their schedule. Could you share some tips for candidates on handling that initial phone call from a potential employer?

A:  With the wealth of job-hunting advice available to job-seekers these days, I continue to wonder why so many who over-prepare for the actual interview, seem to under-prepare for that important pre-interview phone call. People tend to dismiss it as an administrative task that isn’t part of the selection process, when the truth is that every interaction they have with the company prior to the interview, is taken into consideration when they’re choosing the final candidate. That includes talking to the receptionist in the lobby, behavior with others in the parking lot, handling a call from someone setting an interview or just to ask “a couple of questions about your application”.

Recruiters often make decisions –on the spot, in real time- about whether or not to schedule formal interviews based on initial phone interactions. If a candidate sounds unprofessional, frazzled or confused (they forgot they applied, yes, that happened) the opportunity ends there. So here’s my advice:

Once you have submitted applications, expect a call even at odd times (like the evening). That means whenever you don’t recognize a number, it’s could be an employer. Here are some tips:

Better NOT to answer the phone, than to answer poorly. DON’T pick up if you’re driving, listening to loud music or your kids are fighting in the back seat.

Voicemail is your friend. DO let the call go into voicemail (which you’ve changed to something appropriate, without music or silliness) and return the call ASAP when things are quiet.

Be accommodating. DO suggest alternative dates and times if those they offer don’t work with your schedule.

Always be professional. DON’T let your guard down when someone just “wants to chat” about your resume.

We all want to make a good first impression at an interview, but really, the true first impression is made during that phone call. So be ready.

 © Copyright Eva Del Rio

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