Prepare for the telephone interview
Whether it is a phone call from ProGrad, or a phone call from a potential employer, be aware that from the moment you answer the phone you are likely to be in the midst of a telephone interview.
Within a few short sentences, a candidate can make or break their telephone interview. This is primarily based on how their voice sounds on the telephone. The minute we speak on the telephone, you cannot rely on your body language to convey your thoughts and feelings.
If you have a monotone voice, it says to an employer, “I’m bored and not interested in what you’re saying”.
A slow speed and dull pitch will say that you’re not enthusiastic and want to be left alone.
A high pitched voice will express your enthusiasm for a role and the potential opprotunity
Employers during the telephone interview process are primarily assessing for your attitude. Within seconds, judgements can be made about whether they want to continue the conversation or not.
One potential way to change the inflection in your voice is to smile, especially when you first answer the telephone. Did you know that when you smile, the soft palate at the back of your mouth raises and makes the sound waves more fluid. If you are a singer, you would know that the wider you open your mouth and the more teeth you show, the better tone you get. The same applies on the telephone. Smiling helps your voice to sound warm, enthusiastic and friendly.
Don’t under estimate the power of your “telephone voice”. In the first few seconds of picking up a call, smile and prepare to sound enthusiastic, clear and friendly!
ProGrad also use a telephone screening as part of the assessment process. Over 90% of candidates fail this process, mostly due to a dull, monotone voice with a level of disinterest.
For more information about the ProGrad process, feel free to call ProGrad on 02 8235 8300. Alternatively, you can visit our website www.prograd.com.au