The Interview Handbook

Making phone calls is the quickest way of getting an interview, but there are a few rules you need to be aware of. The most obvious one is nerves, you have to be relaxed before you make the call, and you must have an idea as to what you are going to say, remember you must sound professional and clam.

The key question is: Who should I call?

Your objective as with the letter and resume is to get an interview with the person who has the authority to recruit. So do your research.

Tip: Ring the company up before hand ask the receptionist for the name of the individual who looks after recruitment, make sure you tell them what you are skilled in, like sales, sales and marketing or administration, you are looking for the right manager. The most embarrassing thing you could do is pluck up the courage to make the call and end up speaking to the wrong person!!

First question: What do I say?

You should always start by stating the reason for the call; and then be prepared to justify your claims but don’t do so until pressed to. The reason this is so important is that if you start to justify without being pressed by the other party, assumption becomes explanation. The attitude in your voice should be such that the person should just agree to interview.

Tip: Try and work on your voice before you make the call. Tape your own voice, listen to it, does it have a pitch and tone? If not practice, remember a voice should go up and down both in tone and volume. Smile!!!!

When you smile on a call it completely changes the way you come across to the caller - try it with a friend. Also sit up straight, find a comfortable chair with a straight back, by sitting straight this will help you in your breathing.

Try and remember these simple mistakes to avoid

· Hesitation when speaking, this shows weakness.

· Lack of fluency due to nerves or poor research of the company.

· Talking to fast

· Not listening to what is been said

For those of you who don’t know what words to use when making this call, here are few scripts that will help you get started.

1.  Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Bill Harris.  I have been interested in Component Company because what I have been reading in the newspaper.  I think I have some relevant skills and ideas which may help Component Company with these issues.  Do you have 15 or 30 minutes in your diary in the next week or so?

2.  Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Bill Harris.  I see Component Company is looking for Sales Representatives.  I wanted to call you direct, right away, I understand your business and I think I can offer more than the typical candidate.  I wanted to be the first to ask to get on your interview schedule.

3.  Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Bill Harris. I am about to put my resume in the post to you, with a covering letter explaining how my experience fits exactly with what you need for the Sales position.  If you were to describe the ideal candidate for this role, how would you do that?  Do you mind if I stop by this week?—I’d really like to hear what you need this person to do for your company, extra things that perhaps are not in the job description.

4.  Hello Mr. Smith, my name is Bill Harris. I saw your advertisement in the local paper and I wanted to call right away to let you know I have those exact qualities and qualifications.  My resume and cover letter can’t show you how excited I am about Component Company—I hope I can visit with you in the next few days.

Admittedly, there are dozens of telephone openings you can use.  My intent here was actually NOT to give you one that you could realistically use.  My intent was to show you how important it is for you to write down the exact words you are going to use when making this phone call.   Words are important.  I thought this article my help you as well.

Using the telephone to get a job