The Dreaded Phone Interview

The time has come for my first phone interview and I can honestly say I am terrified. I would say there is nothing worse then phone interviews, even skype would be better, but at the same time I can't really complain because it's an interview, right? And my first interview as a real person for that matter!

If any of you are looking for jobs outside of where you live then you'll most likely come across a phone interview or two. I've compiled a list of tips and tricks on what to do and how to handle this part of the interviewing process.

1. Print Everything Out
   Have a printer nearby? Print out your resume, cover letter, job description, company description, interviewers name and information, if you think you'll need it print it out! Don't waste your time and more importantly your interviewer's time trying to find that webpage that will give you the answer to the question you need to answer. Have all of your papers in front of you fanned out so you can quickly look from page to page. If you think it's necessary highlight important areas! Remember phone interviews are short, you want to make sure you're making the impression you want to give off.
2. Pay Attention to Your Body Language
   Believe it or not your body language will be reflected in your voice. It's normal to be nervous but unlike face-to-face interviews you can control your nerves much easier. Whether your a pacer or a statue place yourself in front of a mirror and observe how you're speaking. Don't focus too much on yourself though or you'll lose track of the interview! Use hand gestures and emotions and it will reflect much better in the interview than if you try to stifle everything. Just because you feel silly doesn't mean you sound silly!
3. Answer Your Phone Professionally
   I'm guilty of answering phones by just saying "hello!" (even at work, whoops) but for the interview you obviously know it's coming. Instead of just saying hello say "Hello, this is your name." This way it avoids that awkward moment when you have to verify that they have the right number.
4. It's All About Convincing
   The purpose of a phone interview isn't about getting the job, it's about getting the face-to-face interview. Convince them you are not only capable to do the job, but excited about it too! Employers want to higher someone who is good at what they do and passionate about it too. If there's no passion the job won't last long.
5. Don't Forget About Phone Etiquette
   It's simple to get nervous and your thoughts get all mixed up while you're being interviewed but try not to leave too much dead space in the conversation. If you're worried about keeping track don't be afraid to write things down while you're being asked questions. And don't be afraid to ask to have a question repeated. It's better you understand what their asking than give a bad answer.
6. Thank You, Thank You, Thank You!Just because this interview is over the phone doesn't mean it isn't a real interview. As soon as the interview is over make sure you get your interviewer's email address and send them a thank you note expressing your appreciation for them taking the time to interview you as well as your excitement to work for this company. Don't be afraid to ask any follow-up questions in this email, it shows you're interested!

I hope these tips help! If you have any more tips and tricks feel free to add them in the comment section! I'm sure everyone reading would appreciate it!