Phone Interview Questions and Answers Examples - How to Prepare for Phone Interviews (2023)

Introduction

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Phone Interview Questions and Answers Examples - How to Prepare for Phone Interviews// Wondering what to expect during a phone interview? In this video, we will show you how to answer a phone interview and how to master phone interviews.

I will teach you what to expect in a phone interview for a job so when you’re scheduled, you already know what to expect in a phone interview with HR and how to answer phone interview questions. At the end of this video, you will be able to learn how to ace a phone interview, especially after gaining more information about common phone interview questions and answers.

Make sure to like this video and subscribe to this channel for more phone interview tips and questions or telephone interview questions and answers. Wifi high five!

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WATCH: How to Not Ramble in a Job Interview
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WATCH: 5 Questions to Ask in a Job Interview
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WATCH: 8 Ways to Answer: “Why do you want to leave your job? (Voluntary, Layoffs, & Fired)
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WATCH: How to Negotiate Your Salary - 40%+ Increase Your Salary!
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WATCH: How to Build a Story Toolbox - The Powerful Formula to Answer Any Interview Question
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WATCH: How to Send a Thank You Note After an Interview and IMPRESS Them!
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Content

- Hey everyone,: this is Self Made, Millennial., I'm, Madeline Mann, and in this video I am going to spill all the juicy ways to absolutely crush a phone interview.

I work in HR, so I'll tell you how we are scoring your interview.

What.

We are looking for, how to prepare for it, how to impress the interviewer, and what to do after the interview.

You'll have a black belt in phone interviews by the end of this.

I tell it like it is for all of your career and job search.

Advice.

So make sure you subscribe to this channel and hit the bell to get a new video.

Every Thursday.

These methods have helped my students pass phone interviews at companies like Google, Apple, Sony, Amazon, Netflix.

So.

These tips will get you there.

And stay to the end, because I tell you my number one tip for maximizing your salary negotiation power when the conversation turns to money.

Here are some rapid fire first tips to start us off and then I'm going to walk you through my exact script.

First, phone interviews are often a half an hour or less.

You need to be concise.

Every answer you give should take a minute or less.

Yes! If.

They don't get through all of their questions during that call.

That increases the likelihood that you will be rejected.

I have a video on how to not ramble in an interview, and so I will link that in the description.

Second, have notes.

Out.

Here are the notes.

I have out, and you know, take notes on this.

Part.

I have notes on my elevator pitch.

Slash.

Tell me about yourself: answer.

I have the verbiage of why I left my last role.

The verbiage, of what salary I want.

I, have notes on the company.

Why I'm interested in it.

And then one to three accomplishments that I think that they would be impressed by based off of the job description.

All of these things are so easy to choke on when you're actually asked about it.

So why not have the answers right in front of you?, Of, course.

Third, then take copious notes throughout the call.

Come on.

They are going to give you all of the answers of what they are looking for in this role.

Take.

That language that they say, parrot it back to them in future interviews about yourself.

Focus on those things.

You are going to forget it.

If you don't take these notes, so don't be reckless and fritter this opportunity, away.

Take them notes.

Don't, be a fritter.

Critter.

Fourth, always ask questions.

If they ask you.

Do you have any questions for us? You got to! If.

You need help with this part.

I will link a video that gives you five questions to ask in a phone interview, but I'll actually also give you one here that I didn't mention in that video, which is gold.

If I sense that the role has been open for a while, or they tell me that it has, I'll, ask something like.

How far are you into the search for this role? Has? It been a few weeks, months?, Sometimes they'll, say something like.

It's been a few months, it's tough to find the right, person.

And, I'll ask.

What seems to be missing from a lot of the candidates? You're speaking to? And then.

They spill the beans on what the hiring manager is most hung up.

On.

Now, you know what to emphasize or also, if it's something that's a weakness of yours.

You can then strategize on how to address that area and overcome it.

Then.

You can hire a career coach like me, or someone else, and we'll make sure that you dominate it.

Asking.

That one question has gotten me so far in interviews, it's crazy.

Okay.

So next you need to understand what the company wants out of the call.

So I'm, going to walk you through the exact questions.

I will ask on a phone interview, and explain why each one is asked so that you can give the best answer.

Sure.

Other companies may ask different questions.

This isn't pulled out of the Holy Bible of recruiting that all companies must follow.

This.

But.

This is a very common format.

So listen up, pup.

I start the call with some, you know, lame.

Pleasantries, like, how's, your Tuesday going? You, know the drill.

I'll then tell them the format of the call, and the first thing I'll start with is telling them about the company and the opportunity.

And I will ask questions.

Like.

Are you familiar with what our company does? Are you familiar with this technology and how it works? Now? This is not to put someone on blast, but to sincerely understand how deep I should go in my explanation.

For this though.

It is impressive if you know things about the company.

Literally saying things like yes, I downloaded the app, yes, I was on your website.

Last night., Yes I saw this news article of the new product that just launched.

You will instantly put yourself in an advanced bracket, higher than all of the other candidates.

Who didn't do that research.

So, respond briefly, showing that you looked into the company.

And also show a bit of passion, saying it sounds really interesting.

Then.

You can also say, but I'd really love to hear more about the company and the role from your perspective.

It is always helpful to hear how companies characterize themselves., Okay, so next, most people would ask you, tell me about yourself, or walk me through your resume.

I.

Never ask that, because I've studied your resume, your cover, letter, your LinkedIn hardcore by this point.

Mm-hmm.

But.

Other people will hop on the phone and haven't studied your resume quite so closely, so they need your help.

To answer this question I have a free, worksheet download on how to answer.

The question.

Tell me about yourself concisely and effectively.

I will link that in the description and in the comments.

Because the kiss of death is, if you spend more than two minutes answering this question.

It should be quick., Next I ask.

What do you want in your next role? This is to understand if the current role is compatible with what they want.

And, to know.

If I have to close this candidate, at the end of the process, we really want them as our person, I'll use.

This information to get them excited about signing on with us.

I will reference these notes and emphasize those things since I know that those are important to them.

You all have to remember that this interview process is a two way.

Street.

We are trying to sell you.

While you are trying to sell us.

So for this, be honest and specific.

Then.

Of course, nine times out of ten, you will be asked.

Why did you leave your current job? Why? Do you want to leave your current job? Why? Did you leave your last job? This is an important question to understand.

To know in a pure form what you really want.

And.

Also what situations are incompatible with you or drive you away.

I have a video that gives you eight scripts of how to respond to this.

Question.

You definitely need to hit that video up because, like I said, someone's gonna ask you this.

Then, next I ask.

What makes you interested in this role and company? Passion and interest, y'all, it's so important.

Most companies will look for this in their first call.

So companies want people who want them.

Also.

We want to make sure that your priorities line up with what we want for the role as well.

Emphasize things you like about the company, product, culture, responsibilities.

But, don't talk about your interest in the salary, benefits, commute., That kind of stuff is so generic and are such extrinsic.

Motivators.

You should also expect to answer questions.

Like.

Can you commute five days a week to our location? Are you legally able to work in this country? When? Is the soonest you'd be able to start? For those questions, answer, directly.

Then? You will likely get the salary question.

I, usually phrase it like.

Do you have any compensation, requirements? Other people will ask it more bluntly like.

How much do you make? Or? What's your targeted, salary? This is a tricky question that you must prepare your answer.

For.

I will link a full video of how to respond to this question.

You've gotta check that out.

But I will give you a quick preview, and that is do not give them a number.

If you can help it.

Say you're looking for an opportunity that is the best fit.

The longer you wait to say what salary you need, the more negotiation power you have.

You'll get all of the really crucial tips in that video though, so check it.

Out.

Finally, I'll, ask pointed questions about the need to have skills on the job.

Description.

This is to ensure that anyone who moves onto the video or onsite interviews meets the core qualifications of the role.

Pay attention to what they choose to ask.

You, about.

Such as, a classic question for interviewing a product manager would be to ask them.

What's one of your favorite products right, now? And then ask them to critique the user experience and what they would change about.

It.

Critical thinking is such a crucial part of being a product manager, that if they can't give you a well thought out answer to that question, then they will very likely not move onto the next round.

The.

Best way to prepare for this section is to look up questions that are often asked to your profession, and to study the job description and be prepared to tell stories of when you completed the tasks.

Listed.

And then reference those stories when it comes up in this section.

So, when they ask you, how would you handle an angry customer? Instead of giving them sone hypothetical answer,? Tell them a story of how you calmed down an angry customer in real life.

Trust me.

They love it.

When you do this.

It's one of my secrets of getting my students, lots of sweet offers.

I will link a video on how you can do this, how you can build your own story toolbox and do this for every interview.

Blow them.

Away.

I will link that in the description.

Then after the interview.

Take your phone, spike it down on the ground, like you, just scored a touchdown.

Go out and grab some ice cream, because I am so proud of you that you brought your best self to the game.

Okay, but yeah, then come back to your computer and within 24 hours, make sure you send a fricking.

Thank you, email to that interviewer., Why? Because! Remember what I said, companies want.

People who want them.

They will, like you more and perceive you as being more interested and passionate.

If you send a thank you, email.

I will link a video of how to write a killa.

Thank you, email in the description and in the comments.

Also, make sure you follow up every five business days to hear about next steps.

Persistence gets jobs.

Do this, I will link a free download in the description and in the comments of follow up email templates for you to send to the company.

I've already written them for you.

Send them their way.

You're, getting two free downloads in this video.

What, a treat! Make sure you like this video and subscribe to this channel.

Thanks.

So much everyone., Wi-Fi high five!.

FAQs

Phone Interview Questions and Answers Examples - How to Prepare for Phone Interviews? ›

To make sure you sound professional when answering the phone for your interview, start out by stating your name in an upbeat tone, and when the interviewer states who they are, confirm that you were anticipating their call. This way, the interviewer will know who you are and that they reached the correct individual.

What are the four 4 tips on how to prepare for a phone interview? ›

Phone interview tips
  1. Confirm the scheduled time. Before the day of your interview, confirm the date and time so you're sure to pick up when the call comes in. ...
  2. Reschedule, if necessary. ...
  3. Research the company. ...
  4. Know who will be calling you. ...
  5. Look over the job description. ...
  6. Be an active listener. ...
  7. Be professional. ...
  8. Smile.
Jun 9, 2023

How should you answer the phone for a phone interview? ›

To make sure you sound professional when answering the phone for your interview, start out by stating your name in an upbeat tone, and when the interviewer states who they are, confirm that you were anticipating their call. This way, the interviewer will know who you are and that they reached the correct individual.

How do you answer phone screening questions? ›

Don't try to answer the question the way that you think they want to hear it. Just be honest,” Smith says. If it helps you craft a good answer, offer some examples of past good managers you've had or management styles you've come across that you've liked.

What is one strategy that can help you prepare for a phone interview? ›

Preparing for your first phone interview can be daunting, but you'll knock it out of the park if you prepare strategically.
  • Choose a Quiet Space. ...
  • Remove Distractions. ...
  • Outline Talking Points. ...
  • Choose Your Attire Intentionally. ...
  • Test Your Tech. ...
  • Invest Time in Preparation. ...
  • Be Mindful of Your Body Language. ...
  • Pause and Breathe.

What are the 5 C's of interviewing? ›

The five C's that employers want a candidate to demonstrate are: Capability, and evidence of it, to perform the absolute must deliver tasks; Confidence in their own ability; Concern for others and the organisation; Command and the desire to increase this; and Communication ability at all levels.

What to say why should we hire you? ›

Here are some additional examples to build your response to “Why should we hire you?”:
  • You have a passion for the work and proven abilities.
  • You have differentiated experience in this field.
  • You have exceptional drive and determination to succeed.
  • You have unique skills that separate you from other candidates.
Oct 31, 2022

What should I say at the beginning of a phone interview? ›

Start Off Strong

You can start off with something like, “Hello, this is [Your Name]” or “Hi [Name], this is [Your Name]. Thanks for calling, it's great to speak with you.” Basically, you'll want to say something that'll set the right tone off the bat.

How can I impress a phone interviewer? ›

Phone Interview Tips- For an Effective First Impression
  1. Be Prepared, Minimize Distractions. ...
  2. Avoid Using Cell Phones. ...
  3. Good Communication is Critical. ...
  4. Demonstrate Enthusiasm & Liveliness. ...
  5. Prepare Responses & Questions to ask in a typical phone interview:
  6. Be a Good Listener. ...
  7. Close the Interview.

What do you say to answer the phone? ›

When you pick up the phone, begin by offering your greeting of choice. "Hello" is always a polite option, as is "Good Morning" or "Good Afternoon." Confirm who you are ("This is Amanda") and the identity of the person calling ("To whom am I speaking?") so that all parties begin the call on the same page.

What not to say in a phone screening? ›

Don't Talk About Your Personal Life

Unless you're directly asked a question about what you like to do in your off hours. “The point of a phone interview is to focus on getting to know a candidate's professional experience and goals,” says Mckenzie Roark, campus talent specialist at Lithko Contracting.

What's a good answer to what is your weakness? ›

How to answer What are your greatest weaknesses? Choose a weakness that will not prevent you from succeeding in the role. Be honest and choose a real weakness. Provide an example of how you've worked to improve upon your weakness or learn a new skill to combat the issue.

How do I ace my phone screen interview? ›

  1. Be confident and bring the energy!
  2. Be conscious of time.
  3. Don't over-complicate your answers.
  4. Use valuable resources during the interview.
  5. Get comfortable talking about your previous work experiences.
  6. Close out the screening interview by asking intelligent questions.
  7. Follow-up quickly and appropriately.
Mar 16, 2023

What do recruiters look for in a phone interview? ›

It is to determine the candidate's potential at first sight and consider whether they will be a good fit for the company by testing their communication, clarity, and understanding of their roles & responsibilities. In some cases, it can be the final call of the interview.

How do you stay calm before a phone interview? ›

Here are five tips you can use to help relieve nerves before a job interview:
  1. Prepare yourself. ...
  2. Plan your day around the interview. ...
  3. Eat breakfast. ...
  4. Talk to a family member or friend. ...
  5. Take a break. ...
  6. Try the STOP method. ...
  7. Focus on your breathing and pause before you speak. ...
  8. Remember you're having a conversation.
Jun 30, 2023

What are 4 things you should do before an interview? ›

before the interview begins
  • Be on time! Aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early.
  • Bring the supplies you prepared the night before your interview.
  • Be considerate and polite to all staff members.
  • Put mobile devices on silent.
  • Avoid any scents that may be distracting to the employer.
  • Enter with a positive attitude.

What 4 things can you do to prepare for your interview? ›

4 steps to prepare the best you for job interviews
  • Go the extra mile with your research. ...
  • Map out how your skills and experience match the job description. ...
  • Practice with a friend or your recruiter. ...
  • Prepare interesting questions to make yourself stand out.

What are 5 things you should do to prepare for or at an interview? ›

Get ready to present yourself well and figure out all of the interview logistics.
  1. Figure out what to wear. ...
  2. Look appropriate and professional. ...
  3. Print out copies of your resume. ...
  4. Prepare a reference list. ...
  5. Test any needed tech. ...
  6. Pack your bag ahead of time. ...
  7. Figure out where you're going and how you're getting there.

What are the four 4 phases of an interview? ›

Any job interview can be broken down into four general stages: introductions, broad questions and answers, position-related questions, and the conclusion. Take a look at some of our sample interview questions and questions you can ask an interviewer.

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