HR Key Functions

Some companies prefer to arrange a phone interview in order to screen the applicants. What to do if you are expecting a phone call interview?
The following articles can help on the issue:

1. What you should know about Telephone Interview Etiquette
This article describes important DO's and Don'ts you have to face and avoid during phone interviews.
- give a correct phone number
- ask impressive questions
- prepare answers to commonly asked questions
- avoid slang terms
- avoid eating, smoking

2. Five ways to do better in phone interviews
Five easy ways to feel more comfortable and convincing during the phone interview.

3. Preparing for a Telephone Interview
A detailed guide from the begining to the end:
- Make a note of any questions
- Prepare mentally
- Be polite
- Tips on closing the telephone interview

4. Phone Interview Questions
The best way to be prepared is to know what the interviewer is going to ask you.
This article lists common questions, for example:
- Can you tell me a little about yourself?
- What made you apply for this position?
- Why are you considering leaving your current position?
- What are the top duties you perform in your current position?

5. Phone Interviewing Do's and Don'ts
Another great article with simple rules you have to face or avoid, some examples here:
- Don't chew gum or food, or drink anything noisy
- Don't panic if you have special needs
- Don't snuffle, sneeze or cough. If you can't avoid these behaviors, say “excuse me.”

6. Don't wear pajamas for a phone interview
A very good collection of tips --> short and clear! A "keep it short and simple" article, very useful indeed.
- Be enthusiastic
- Never interrupt
- Say thanks
- Avoid saying "um" or "ah"

7. The Seven Stupid Mistakes People Make on a Telephone Interview

A funny story shows common mistakes people are making during phone interviews.
"... "Whew! OK, much better. Wassup? Mr. Smith...you there?"
...
"What? Oh, I'm not talking to you." (Chuckling) "Just ordering some breakfast. Did you say something?"..."

Based on a comical story the author leads to 7 stupid mistakes people accomplish during phone calls.

8. 18 Ways to Improve Your Telephone Performance
"...Remember that 90% of all communication is body language. Without the input that body language provides, phone interviews can be tough to manage. Make sure you go out of your way to communicate effectively through the telephone line..."

9. The Phone Screen
Interesting point of view from a recruiter's side --> keep reading - this article is very informative:
"...A phone screen has distinct advantages over a normal in-person interview. First, it’s cheap. It takes 45 minutes to an hour and actually does eliminate about half of the people who looked really, really good on paper...
...My phone interviews have three parts. In the first part, I ask the candidate to describe their career history and basically tell me about themselves...
...The third and final part of the interview is letting the candidate interview me... "