Best way to handle telephone/computer interviewing
Sometimes you may have an interview by phone. The thing to remember is that from the time you send your resume in to an employer, there are no innocent questions!

The phone may be used as a pre-screening interview given by a lower level employee with a script. Their job is to weed out people who don't fit the profile given by the hiring manager. Be sure you have done your homework on the company and understand it's goals. Plus, have a list of your strengths, greatest knowledge, things you do best, and key accomplishments. You might keep copies of your resume and list by the phone.

Another variation of the phone interview is a computerized interview. This is done entirely by computer and involves answering a series of questions. You are asked to call a certain number and then may be required to answer according to a scale of 1-5. One being I strongly disagree with 5 at I strongly agree. Then the computer's voice asks you various questions in a timed sequence. Such as "Would you say you are an optimistic person" and you would hit the phone key for 1 to 5 as your answer. Hopefully,

The best way to answer is staying in the top 2 numbers for positive questions and lower two for negative questions. A negative question might be" are you depressed most of the time?" Hit 1 for I strongly disagree

If you have gotten a certain score you will be passed on to a live person to finish off the process. Remember her or his name and smile, it helps to get across what a wonderful person you are. The process will continue with some of the same questions. Then it's over and the company will get back to you.

Again, the best preparation is to be prepared whether it's a live interview or a phone screening call. Remember to smile and you might keep a mirror on your desk helping you to give them a great smile!

Michael Reed, M.Ed Career and Job Interview Coach

About the Author

Michael Reed is a Career Coach, University teacher, and former business owner who specializes in Career assessments, resumes, and interviewing. He develops and gives classes on Successful Career Changing, Resume Mania, and Power Interviewing at Boise State University and other locations.