As a career coach, I always recommend my candidates are prepared for the interview; phone or face. Most people consider the first interview to be when they first go in person to the employer’s office. However, the phone interview is just as important as the face interview. If you want to secure a face interview, you must first pass the phone interview.How do you prepare for the interview?Whether it's a phone or face interview, they both require preparation. When you are applying for jobs, you should have a note pad to take notes about the company and the positions you are applying for. I do not recommend applying to multiple positions without reviewing the requirements, job description, and location. Some employment websites offer a quick apply feature, I recommend to not use this unless you're informed on what you're signing up for.If you do your diligence and have notes about the positions you applied for, it'll be easier when the hiring manager calls you. If you just started the search for a new career, you might remember where you applied to, but when you have been searching for weeks and have been submitting your resume to different companies; good luck remembering it all.In some cases, the hiring manager will send you an email to schedule a phone interview. Do your homework and get prepared as if you are meeting in person. Research about the company and the interviewer. Create a comfortable environment, a quite space you can give all the attention to the interviewer. Avoid noises, especially dogs barking or kids playing around.Do not get too comfortable, they can also call you with no advice at all. Make sure your voicemail recording is appropriate, keep the professionalism at all times. If you received an unexpected phone call from the hiring manager and you are driving, in a noisy environment or you are just not prepared, it is OK to reschedule. Show interest and ask the interviewer what is the best time to schedule the phone interview.During the phone interview, listen first, talk second. If you have doubts or don't understand the question, ask to repeat the question. Remember, you never have a second chance to make a first impression.The most frequent questions asked during the phone interview are about your professional background (companies you've worked for, title, responsibilities). Also, why are you leaving your job, and salary expectations. They might also ask about the new job you are applying for and what you know about the company. Why do you want to work there?Feel free to send your questions at info@imgroup-usa.com. Follow us to receive information about FREE workshops and Career Fairs.

Tips to ace your next interview