20 Phone Interview Tips That Will Help You Get Hired in 2025

January 5, 2025
By Ann McKenzie
In Interviewing

Did you know that over 60% of initial job interviews are conducted over the phone? With remote work on the rise, phone interviews play a crucial role in the hiring process. With the right preparation and strategy, you can ace your phone interview in 2025 and move one step closer to landing your dream job.

Phone Interview Tips

Here are 20 helpful tips to keep in mind as you get ready for your phone interview:

Before the Phone Interview

1. Research the Company

Before your phone interview, research the company thoroughly. Understand its mission, values, recent projects, and position in the industry. By demonstrating your knowledge about the company, you show your genuine interest and dedication to the role. Familiarizing yourself with the company culture will also help you tailor your responses to align with what the employer is seeking.

According to career expert Alison Doyle, knowing a company’s background is crucial for demonstrating how you align with its values and goals, which can significantly boost your chances of making a strong impression.

2. Understand the Role

It’s essential to have a clear understanding of the job you’re applying for. Review the job description and identify the key skills and responsibilities. Be ready to explain how your experience and qualifications make you a strong fit for the role. Employers want to know that you’ve taken the time to assess the position and that you’re not applying blindly to various jobs.

You can use websites like Glassdoor or LinkedIn to find insights about the role, including reviews from current or former employees and common interview questions for similar positions.

3. Know Your Resume

Your resume is the foundation of the phone interview, so be prepared to discuss every aspect of it. Know your experiences, achievements, and skills in detail. Be ready to explain any gaps or career changes and highlight how your background aligns with the job you’re pursuing. Familiarity with your own resume ensures you can answer questions smoothly and confidently.

Career expert Amanda Augustine emphasizes that candidates should be ready to provide examples that highlight their qualifications. Keep a copy of your resume in front of you to reference specific points during the conversation.

4. Prepare for Common Interview Questions

Anticipate typical phone interview questions, such as “Tell me about yourself,” “Why do you want to work here?” and “What are your strengths and weaknesses?” Develop clear, concise, and engaging responses that effectively showcase your qualifications and enthusiasm for the position. Thorough preparation for these questions will help you maintain focus and deliver confident, structured answers.

5. Practice Your Answers

Once you’ve prepared your answers, practice them out loud. Rehearse with a friend or record yourself to ensure you sound clear, concise, and confident. Practicing will help reduce nerves and make you more comfortable during the actual interview, allowing you to express yourself effectively.

6. Test Your Phone

Technical issues can disrupt the flow of your interview, so it’s crucial to test your phone beforehand. Ensure your device is fully charged, check for strong reception, and make sure you’re in a quiet environment with minimal background noise. A stable and reliable phone connection allows you to focus on the interview without distractions.

7. Use a Notepad

Having a notepad handy can be a game changer during a phone interview. You can jot down important points, questions, or anything the interviewer says that you want to revisit. It’s also helpful for keeping track of the information you want to mention, ensuring you don’t forget key details during the conversation.

During the interview, keep your notepad out of sight from the interviewer, so it doesn’t distract them. Refer to it as needed, but maintain eye contact and engagement.

During the Phone Interview

8. Show a Positive Attitude

Your tone of voice can convey enthusiasm and positivity, even over the phone. Smile as you speak—it comes through in your voice. A friendly, upbeat demeanor helps build rapport with the interviewer and makes you appear more approachable and engaged in the conversation.

According to communication expert Vanessa Van Edwards, a smile can be heard over the phone and helps create a more friendly and enthusiastic tone.

9. Speak Clearly and Slowly

Since the interviewer can’t see you, clear communication is critical. Speak at a moderate pace and enunciate your words to ensure you’re easily understood. Avoid speaking too quickly, which can make it harder for the interviewer to follow along. A calm, measured approach also projects confidence.

Before the interview, visualize yourself speaking clearly and confidently. Positive visualization can enhance your performance.

10. Listen Carefully

Active listening is just as important as how you answer questions. Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and comments, and don’t be afraid to ask for clarification if needed. This shows that you’re engaged in the conversation and care about providing thoughtful, well-informed responses.

Focus on what the interviewer is saying instead of planning your response while they speak. This will help you provide more relevant answers.

11. Use the STAR Method

The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) is a great framework for answering behavioral questions. When asked about past experiences, structure your answer by describing the situation, explaining the task at hand, detailing the actions you took, and concluding with the results you achieved. This ensures your answers are clear, concise, and result-oriented.

12. Keep Notes in Front of You

One of the benefits of a phone interview is the ability to keep notes in front of you. Use this advantage to have your key points, resume, and prepared questions at your fingertips. However, avoid reading directly from your notes, as this can make your responses sound rehearsed or unnatural.

13. Watch Out for Filler Words

Using too many filler words like “um,” “uh,” or “like” can make you appear less confident or unsure of your answers. While it’s natural to use some fillers in conversation, try to minimize them. Pausing briefly to collect your thoughts is better than filling the silence with unnecessary words.

14. Ask Questions

Asking thoughtful questions shows that you’re engaged and interested in the role. Inquire about the team dynamics, company culture, or upcoming projects. This not only helps you gather more information about the job but also leaves a positive impression on the interviewer by showing your curiosity and initiative.

Common Phone Interview Challenges

15. Dealing with Interruptions

Unexpected interruptions can happen during a phone interview, but it’s how you handle them that matters. If something unavoidable occurs, politely excuse yourself, address the issue quickly, and then return to the conversation. Always apologize for any disruption and do your best to prevent them beforehand.

Career coach Melody Wilding advises that remaining calm and composed is key to handling interruptions professionally.

16. Managing Awkward Silences

Awkward silences can feel uncomfortable, but don’t rush to fill them. Sometimes, the interviewer is simply taking notes or reflecting on your answers. If the silence persists, it’s okay to acknowledge it lightly. You can say, “I appreciate your patience as I think this through.” This can ease any tension and maintain a positive atmosphere. Managing silence gracefully shows you’re composed and patient.

17. What to Do if You Don’t Know the Answer

If you’re asked a question and don’t know the answer, stay calm. Instead of panicking, acknowledge the question and explain how you’d approach finding the solution. Employers value problem-solving skills, and being honest about your limitations while demonstrating your willingness to learn can work in your favor.

If a question is unclear, don’t hesitate to ask the interviewer for more details. This can not only help you understand the question better but also buys you time to formulate a response.

Closing the Phone Interview

18. End with Enthusiasm

Just as first impressions are important, so are final impressions. Conclude the interview by expressing your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Reinforce your interest by mentioning a specific aspect of the company or job that excites you. A strong, enthusiastic close leaves a lasting impression.

Example:

“I appreciate the chance to speak with you today! After learning more about the role and your team at Creative Marketing Solutions, I am even more enthusiastic about the opportunity to leverage my experience in digital marketing strategies. I look forward to the possibility of working together!”

19. Ask About the Next Steps

Before the interview ends, ask about the next steps in the hiring process. This shows you’re eager to move forward and helps set expectations for when you’ll hear back. It also allows you to prepare for any additional steps, such as in-person interviews or assessments.

After the Phone Interview

20. Follow-up with a Thank You Email

After the interview, send a thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. Keep it short and polite, reiterating your interest in the role and highlighting a key point from the conversation. A well-timed thank-you note demonstrates your professionalism and can help keep you top of mind with the interviewer.

Career expert Debra Wheatman advises sending a thank-you note within 24 hours of the interview to express appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role.

Common Phone Interview Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common phone interview mistakes to avoid:

Poor Phone Etiquette: Answering the phone unprofessionally, speaking too softly, or not clearly identifying yourself at the start of the call can create a negative first impression.
Talking Too Much: Rambling or giving long-winded answers can make it difficult for the interviewer to follow your responses. Stick to concise, relevant answers.
Interrupting the Interviewer: Cutting off the interviewer while they’re speaking shows a lack of respect and poor listening skills. Always let them finish their question before you respond.
Multitasking During the Interview: Trying to do other things while on the call, like checking your email or browsing the web, can cause distractions and reduce your focus.
Background Noise and Distractions: Taking the call in a noisy environment can make it hard for both you and the interviewer to hear each other. Find a quiet, private space for the interview.
Sounding Uninterested or Monotone: Speaking in a flat or uninterested tone can give the impression that you’re not enthusiastic about the role. Smile when you speak—it will come through in your voice.
Not Asking Questions: Failing to ask questions about the job or company can signal a lack of interest or preparation. Always have a few questions ready to ask the interviewer.

Conclusion

Mastering the phone interview is a crucial step in securing your dream job. By following these 20 tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle the challenges of a phone interview and make a lasting, positive impression. Remember, preparation is key, so invest time in researching the company, practicing your responses, and staying calm and focused during the interview. With the right approach, you’ll stand out from the competition and move one step closer to landing the job.

FAQ

How can I make a strong impression during a phone interview?

To make a strong impression, be attentive, ask insightful questions, and demonstrate enthusiasm for the role. Show that you are well-prepared by referring to your research about the company and highlighting how your skills align with the job.

What should I wear to a phone interview?

Even though it’s a phone interview, dressing professionally can help you feel more confident and focused. Wearing business attire, even just from the waist up, can put you in the right mindset for the conversation.

How do I handle technical issues during a phone interview?

If you experience any technical issues, remain calm. Inform the interviewer right away and offer to call back or switch to another communication method, like a video call, if possible.

How long should I expect a phone interview to last?

Phone interviews typically last between 20 to 45 minutes. However, the length can vary depending on the role and the number of questions. Be prepared for the interview to go a little longer than expected.