Job interviews are an important tool that helps employers in screening the most suitable and perfect candidate fitted to be a part of their company. Most of them choose the phone interview as one of the main parts of the initial screening process. It is basically their first step to know if the aspirant is worthy to be given the chance to go on the next level of the process. The result will determine whether they will invite him or her personally in their office for an in-person interview or not. This process might sound so easy but actually it's not.
There are certain things a recruiter needs to keep in mind in order for them to conduct this phone interview process professionally and effectively. Some tips that can help them in conducting this type of interview are:
Be strict in following a 5-20-5 rule
If a recruiter has a lot of candidates scheduled to be screened, it is best to give each of them the same opportunity to show off their skills. So better not make the interview too long. The ideal time for an interview is 30 minutes only. According to Tim Vasil, an entrepreneurial engineer from Cambridge, MA, "That is, Spend 5 minutes talking about the company and the job opportunity background, 20 minutes asking questions, and 5 minutes answering the candidate's questions." Remember not to exceed beyond the allotted time for the interview. Speak more concisely and choose the best questions more carefully.
Use landline
Because of the instability of connection, using cellphones to conduct phone job interviews is not a good idea, as stated in College Grad. Remember, one of the goals in a phone job interview is achieving a healthy communication. That's why if the recruiter has a choice, better choose landline over cellphones.
End the interview with a friendly note
No matter what the result of the interview is, recruiters must never forget to show gratitude towards every aspirant in exerting their effort applying in their company. Let the candidates feel their value and know that their efforts have been deeply appreciated. Just like what has been stated in Business 2 Community, "Remember, you're representing your company, and there's no need to be rude to any candidate -- no matter how unsuitable they are!"
Here are the tips a recruiter can consider in conducting an effective phone job interview. Have more ideas in mind? Share it on the comment box below.
