Since we go to school in the middle of Vermont, it is quite likely that there will be a few companies that will not be on campus for interviews. So, knowing how to nail a phone interview is something that will come in handy.
Being in your own environment is one benefit of the phone interview; however, you can definitely be a bit too comfortable. For example, sitting in your pajamas with a wad of Big League Chew probably isn’t the way to go.
Before the interview, call the CSO (x2061) and schedule a practice interview. The CSO has drop in hours 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. Monday – Friday and they would love to help you find how to best present yourself (even if the interviewer can only hear your voice). It is a great way to practice your responses to common questions and learn how to tailor your answers for the specific job.
Also, check out Bright Green Talent’s 7 Tips for Mastering the Art of the Phone Interview. It is a great post on an even better blog. For a phone interview, they recommend that you have your resume in front of you as well as notes on your strengths and weaknesses. They also believe that getting dressed up will help put you in the right frame of mind.