Interview Tips

For years Can-Am has been helping people prepare for interviews and we have compiled a list items that we recommend you keep in mind. We find it's helpful to review this before any interview, even if you have several years of experience interviewing in the past. It is always a good refresher and can make you feel more prepared and confident.

These resources, including interview questions and answers, interview attire, types of job interviews, interview tips, thank you letters, following up, references, background checks, and salary negotiations, will help you get hired and assist you with employment, unemployment, and workplace issues.

Interview Questions / Answers

Questions you'll be asked during an interview, along with recommended answers, behavioral interview questions, illegal interview questions, and sample questions to ask the interviewer.

Phone Interview Etiquette

Phone interview etiquette is just as important as in-person job interview etiquette when it comes to getting hired. That's because, regardless of how you interview, a sucessful interview will get you to the next stage of the hiring process.

Review phone interview etiquette, including phone interview techniques, advice on how to prepare for a phone interview, and phone interview questions and answers, so you can ace the interview.

Phone Interview Etiquette Tips and Techniques

Employers use telephone interviews as a way of identifying and recruiting candidates for employment. Phone interviews are often used to screen candidates in order to narrow the pool of applicants who will be invited for in-person interviews. They are also used as way to minimize the expenses involved in interviewing out-of-town candidates.

While you're actively job searching, it's important to be prepared for a phone interview on a moment's notice. You never know when a recruiter or a networking contact might call and ask if you have a few minutes to talk. Review these tips, then take a look at our phone interview tips video for more advice on how to pull off your phone interview without a hitch.

Be Prepared to Interview

Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.

  • Keep your resume in clear view, on the top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
  • Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
  • Have a pen and paper handy for note taking.
  • Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted.
  • If the time isn't convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.
  • Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.
  • Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.

Practice Interviewing

Talking on the phone isn't as easy as it seems. I've always found it's helpful to practice. Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so you can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work. You'll be able to hear your "ums" and "uhs" and "okays" and you can practice reducing them from your conversational speech. Also rehearse answers to those typical questions you'll be asked.

During the Phone Interview

  • Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
  • Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
  • Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
  • Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
  • Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
  • Don't interrupt the interviewer.
  • Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
  • Give short answers.
  • Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer ask if it would be possible to meet in person.

After the Interview

  • Take notes about what you were asked and how you answered.
  • Remember to say "thank you." Follow with a thank you note which reiterates your interest in the job.

More Interview Tips

  • Phone Interview Etiquette
    Phone interview etiquette is just as important as in-person job interview etiquette when it comes to getting hired. That's because, regardless of how you interview, a sucessful interview will get you to the next stage of the hiring process.
  • Phone Interview Questions and Answers
    It's important take time to review the typical phone interview questions you'll be asked and to prepare answers. In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.
  • Phone Interview Questions to Ask
    When you are invited for a phone interview, in addition to reviewing the typical phone interview questions you'll be asked, it's important to have a list of questions ready to ask the interviewer.
  • Dressing for Success
    Dress your best for an interview, regardless of the dress code at the organization. If you're in doubt about what to wear, it is best to err on the side of conservatism.
  • Interview Attire
    From suits to socks - everything you need to project a tip-to-toe professional image.
  • Interview Etiquette
    Interviews are often stressful - even for job seekers who have interviewed many times. Interviewing can be even more stressful when you are expected to eat and talk at the same time. Here's how to survive a lunch or dinner interview.
  • Interview Questions and Answers
    The key to successful interviewing is to review these typical interview questions and prepare your answers. Also be ready with questions for the interviewer - here's a list.
  • Winning Interview Skills
    So, you've landed an interview for a seemingly wonderful job! Now what?

Interview Resources

Phone Interviews

More Interview Resources

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