Ok. You have applied for the job, you have sent in your resume and cover letter. What’s next? Each company may have a different first step, and use any of a variety of interviewing methods.  Some may send a preliminary questionnaire to fill out, others may invite you for a face to face interview. Often the first step is a phone screening interview.

Yes! You get the email you have been waiting for inviting you to the first step. Stop and think. Do not get too excited and respond too quickly.

I have received way too many emails, quickly sent from one’s phone, filled with spelling errors, quick responses that did not provide all the requested information, already setting a negative first impression. Please read the email carefully:

1. What did they ask for? Did they ask for a telephone number? Did they ask other specific questions? When you do not provide ALL the requested information you look unprofessional and give the impression that you don’t pay attention to detail.
2. Did they propose an interview time? Does the time work for you? Do you have enough time to prepare for the interview? Will you have a quiet place to talk if it is a phone interview? Enough time to arrive promptly for a face to face interview? Do not rush to say “yes” to the proposed time if you know in advance that you will not be able to perform your best then.
3. Send a professional response. “Hey”, or “y’all” are not appropriate. Thank them for reaching out. Tell them you are looking forward to speaking with them, learning more about the role and company. Check spelling of names. Make sure to provide ALL the requested information.

Next week – 14 Tips to successfully completing the phone screening interview.