The phone screen. Often, the first real interaction between the company and candidate is over a phone interview. And when this is not a positive interaction, it is also the last.
I am often baffled by how some candidates answer the phone on a phone interview.

Just this week, interviewing applicants, at a time mutually agreed upon and scheduled in advance, I talked to some who sounded:

1. Surprised I called
2. Half asleep
3. Completely unprepared

Why bother wasting your time and the recruiters time?

There are some basics that without much preparation anyone could cover:

1. Make sure to have a quiet place to talk, and if on a cell phone that you have good reception.
2. Review the job description and company website
3. Pick up the phone and say your name. Tell the interviewer that you are looking forward to learning about the XXX position at YYY (company name). This is a good way to start the conversation and to show the recruiter that you are prepared. Don’t be the candidate who does not even remember the name of the company they are interviewing for.
4. Show your interest, sound enthusiastic.

This is your chance to make a good first impression, do not ruin it!

To ace the phone screening interview follow these 14 tips.