Phone Interview Best Practices
First impressions matter. Even in phone interviews, you want to make a great introduction and start on the right foot. Before diving into the questions you’d like to ask, thank your interviewer for the opportunity to speak with them and express your enthusiasm for the position. This can help set a positive tone for the rest of the interview.
Research is your friend. Take time to explore the company’s website, social media accounts, and any news articles that feature the organization. This will give you a solid foundation to ask informed questions during your interview. Your interviewer will appreciate that you’ve done your homework.
Consider preparing these types of questions for your interviewer:
- Questions about the company culture
- Details about the role and responsibilities
- Opportunities for growth and development
- Company values and initiatives
- Work-life balance
Make your questions specific and genuine. Stay away from generic questions that can easily be found through a quick internet search. Instead, craft questions that demonstrate you’ve taken time to research the company and the role. Here are some examples:
- How does the company measure success in this role?
- Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?
- How does the organization support professional development for employees?
- Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives that the person in this role would be involved in?
Take notes. During the call, have a pen and paper (or a digital notepad) handy to jot down any important details your interviewer mentions. These notes can be helpful both for follow-up interviews and for evaluating the opportunity after your conversation.
Show appreciation and interest. As the interview wraps up, be sure to thank the interviewer for their time and any valuable insights they provided. If you’re interested in the position, don’t be afraid to express your enthusiasm and ask about the next steps in the hiring process. This will leave a positive lasting impression and set the stage for future conversations.
Top Questions
1. Can you tell me more about the company culture and work environment?
You can ask your interviewer about the company values, their beliefs on employee management, and how employees collaborate with one another. Additionally, you can ask about the work schedule, typical office setup, and if remote work options are available. By asking these questions, you can gauge if the company culture aligns with your personal and professional values.
2. What are the key skills and qualities you’re looking for in a successful candidate?
This question helps you to understand the interviewer’s expectations better. Knowing the skills and qualities they value allows you to compare your strengths with their requirements and highlight your relevant experience that can make you a better fit for the role.
3. How is success measured for this position, and can you provide some examples?
Ask the interviewer about the specific metrics and Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) they use to gauge success in the role. Understanding these expectations can help you determine if you’re comfortable with their performance benchmarks and give you insight into the company’s priorities.
4. What are some challenges the team is currently facing and how does this role contribute to overcoming them?
This question allows you to gain insight into the team’s pain points and how your role would help tackle these issues. Demonstrating empathy and a genuine interest in contributing to the team’s success can make you more appealing to the interviewer.
5. Could you describe the typical career growth trajectory for someone in this position?
Asking this question can help you learn about potential growth opportunities within the company. You can ask about the possible promotion paths, employee development programs, and educational opportunities provided by the organization, which can have a significant impact on your career progression.
6. What’s your favorite aspect of working at the company?
This is a more personal question that gives you a chance to bond with the interviewer. You can learn about the aspects of the company they value and what they find motivating, which can provide valuable insight into the company’s work environment and overall job satisfaction.
7. Can you describe the team I’ll be working with?
Understanding the dynamics of your potential future team can give you insight into the working environment and how you might fit into the group. Consider the size of the team, the roles of its members, and how they collaborate.
8. What are the next steps in the interview process?
Gaining clarity on the timeline and what to expect after your phone interview helps you plan accordingly and shows your eagerness to proceed.
Understanding the Role
During a phone interview, it’s a good opportunity to dive deeper into the role you’re applying for and the expectations that come with it. Here are some phone interview questions that you can ask your interviewer to better understand the position.
Daily Responsibilities
To start with, you can ask your interviewer about the typical day-to-day responsibilities. This can give you a better idea of how your time will be spent:
- Can you describe a typical day in this role?
- What are the most common tasks and challenges for this position?
Goals and Expectations
Another important factor to consider is the overall goals and expectations for the role. Asking about these aspects will help you understand what the company expects from you:
- What do you expect from someone in this position within the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- What are the short- and long-term goals for this role?
Team Dynamics
Understanding the team dynamics can also be very beneficial. This information will provide insight on how you’ll collaborate with others and fit within the company’s culture:
- What is the team size for this role and how does that impact daily work?
- What is the working relationship like between this role and other departments or coworkers?
Opportunities for Growth
Lastly, you may want to inquire about opportunities for growth and development within the company. This can help you gauge the potential for advancing in your career:
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth in this role?
- How does the company support employees in advancing their career paths?
Getting to Know the Interviewer
During a phone interview, it’s important to ask questions that can help you better understand the interviewer: this will not only make the conversation more enjoyable but also establish a mutual connection that may be beneficial in the long run. Below are some examples of questions you can ask to get to know your interviewer better.
- What’s your experience at the company, and how long have you been with them?
This question shows genuine interest in your interviewer’s background and can help you gain insight into the company’s culture. - What do you enjoy most about working at the company?
This question can shed light on the positive aspects of the company, which can help you gauge whether it’s a good fit for you. - How has your career progressed within the company?
Asking this question can provide valuable insights about the company’s growth opportunities and career advancement possibilities.
Don’t forget that getting to know the interviewer goes beyond just asking questions. Listen actively, show empathy, and take the time to understand their perspective. Building a strong rapport with your interviewer can greatly contribute to making a remarkable impression during the phone interview.
Company’s Culture
Understanding the company’s culture is important to ensure you’ll fit in well and thrive in your new role. By asking the right questions, you can get insight into what it’s like to work at the company:
- How would you describe the company culture?
This simple yet crucial question will allow your interviewer to explain their perspective on the environment, values, and overall atmosphere within the company. - What is the company’s approach to work-life balance?
It’s important to find a company that supports a healthy balance between work and personal life. Asking about their expectations regarding working hours, flexibility, and remote work options can help you gauge if the company aligns with your needs. - How is collaboration encouraged in the team?
Collaboration is key to success in any role. Find out from your interviewer if the company promotes teamwork, open communication, and cross-functional collaboration to foster innovation and problem-solving. - What kind of professional development opportunities are available?
It’s always a good idea to invest in yourself and grow professionally. Ask your interviewer about training programs, conference attendance, and mentorship opportunities within the company to help enhance your skillset. - How does the company celebrate success and achievements?
A company that acknowledges and rewards hard work and accomplishments creates a positive work environment. Ask about their methods of recognizing employees, such as awards, team events, or performance-based incentives.
Career Growth Opportunities
When participating in a phone interview, it’s a great idea to ask about the career growth opportunities within the company. This shows that you’re not only interested in getting the job, but also in staying with the organization and growing professionally.
One question to ask your interviewer might be:
Can you tell me about the typical career progression in this department or within the company?
This question demonstrates your desire for professional development and long-term commitment to the organization. It also allows you to gather insights about the company’s structure and if they support employee advancement.
Another question worth asking is:
Are there opportunities for professional development and mentorship within the organization?
Mentoring and professional growth can enhance your skillset, build your network, and accelerate your career progression. By inquiring about these opportunities, you’re signaling to your interviewer that you take these aspects seriously, and it’s of importance to you during your job search.
Consider asking your interviewer about any recent success stories within the company:
Can you share a recent example of an employee who has successfully climbed the ranks within the organization?
Hearing about the success of others encourages you to envision the possibilities for your own career growth at the company. Plus, it demonstrates your interest in learning from colleagues and potentially following a similar path.
Asking informed questions about career growth opportunities during your phone interview not only helps you evaluate if the organization aligns with your career goals, but also sends a strong message that you value personal and professional development.
Role Related Questions
When preparing for a phone interview, it’s a great idea to have a list of role-related questions to ask your interviewer. These questions demonstrate your interest in the position and can help you better understand the role’s responsibilities and expectations.
Scope and Responsibilities: To get a clear understanding of the role, inquire about the main responsibilities and daily tasks. You might ask:
- Can you describe the typical day-to-day tasks for this role?
- What are the primary goals and objectives for this position?
Team Dynamics and Collaboration: Understanding the team dynamic and how the role fits within it, helps you assess if it’s a good fit for your working style. Consider asking:
- What’s the team structure like, and how will I be collaborating with them?
- Are there any remote team members, and how does the team handle communication?
Growth Opportunities: Exploring opportunities for growth and development within the role shows your commitment to personal and professional growth. Example queries include:
- What kinds of opportunities for learning and development will I have in this role?
- What is the typical growth trajectory for someone in this position?
Performance Expectations: Asking about performance expectations gives you valuable insight into the company’s expectations for your success in the role. Try asking:
- How will my performance be measured and evaluated?
- What would exceptional performance look like in this role?
Company’s Future Vision
It’s good to get a sense of where the company is heading and what their long-term plans are. Don’t hesitate to ask the interviewer about their vision for the future. Consider asking:
- What are the company’s goals for the next 3 to 5 years?
- How does this role contribute to achieving those goals?
- Are there any upcoming projects or initiatives that you can share?
This information will give you an idea of what direction the company is going in and whether your goals align with theirs. Plus, it demonstrates your enthusiasm for contributing to their success.
Another aspect to consider is the company’s growth prospects. You can ask about:
- What have been the company’s major achievements in the last couple of years?
- How do you see the company expanding in the future?
- Are there any plans to explore new markets or industries?
Asking these questions shows that you’re interested in the company’s development and stability, and it allows you to gauge whether their growth trajectory matches your own career plans.
Finally, it’s important to understand the company’s stance on innovation. You could ask:
- How does the company foster innovation and creative thinking among employees?
- Can you provide examples of innovative projects or products the company has implemented recently?
- How does the company stay ahead of industry trends and competitors?
These questions will help you determine if the company culture aligns with your values and if it is the right fit for you.
Job Offer Details
When discussing your potential job offer during a phone interview, you want to clarify some key financial and logistical points. Getting these details early can help you decide if this opportunity aligns with your career and personal goals.
Salary Range
Before you proceed too far into the interview process, you should get a clear understanding of the salary range for the position. This isn’t just about the base number; you’ll want to know if there’s room for negotiation based on your experience and qualifications. For example, you might ask, “Can you provide the salary range for this role, and how might it be adjusted for specific expertise?”
Benefits Package
Understanding the full scope of the benefits package is just as crucial as knowing the salary. This includes health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and any other perks the company offers. When you inquire about this, try phrasing it like, “Could you outline the main components of the benefits package, such as health insurance and retirement contributions?”
Start Date Flexibility
Lastly, it’s important to discuss the potential start date and any flexibility that may exist. Companies often have preferred start dates, but they may be willing to adjust depending on your situation. To get this information, you could ask, “Is there any flexibility in the start date for this position, or is there a specific time frame you’re looking at?”
Related: How to Negotiate Salary [Examples]
Learning More
1. What does a typical day look like for someone in this role?
Asking about the daily responsibilities of the position gives you insight into what you can expect in the role. It also demonstrates your interest in understanding the workflow and expectations.
2. Can you tell me more about the company culture and values?
Understanding the company’s culture and work environment is essential to determining if it’s a good fit for you. Pay attention to the aspects of the company’s culture that resonate with you or raise concerns.
3. How does the company support professional growth and development?
This question showcases your ambition and drive for self-improvement. The interviewer’s response can help you decide if the organization aligns with your long-term career goals.
4. What are the biggest challenges facing this role?
Asking about challenges reveals your readiness to face obstacles head-on and problem-solve. It might also highlight any skills or experiences you can emphasize to meet these challenges.
5. What are the opportunities for collaboration within this position?
Collaboration is an essential part of successful teamwork. Asking about opportunities for working with others can give you a better understanding of the company’s team dynamics and communication style.
Flexible Working Arrangements
You might be curious about whether the company offers flexible working arrangements. It’s a great topic to bring up during your phone interview. Here are a few questions to consider asking your interviewer:
- What is the company’s policy on remote work?
Find out if the company supports remote work and if it is an option for the role you are applying for. This will help you understand if there is any flexibility in where you can perform your job duties. - Are there flexible work hours?
Ask the interviewer if employees can adjust their work schedules. Some businesses may allow for flexible work hours or possibilities, such as starting earlier or finishing later in the day to accommodate personal obligations. - What is the mix of in-office and remote work for this role?
It’s helpful to get a sense of how often you would be expected to be in the office versus working remotely. This can give you an idea of the general work-life balance provided by the company. - Will I be expected to be available outside of the standard work hours?
Understand your availability expectations outside of standard work hours to manage your time effectively and to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Don’t hesitate to inquire about the company’s expectations in this area. - How does the company maintain communication and collaboration among remote employees?
Get an insight into the tools and strategies the employer uses to keep employees connected, engaged, and productive while working remotely. This information can help you gauge your potential remote work experience with the company.
Follow-Up Questions
1. Can you describe the onboarding process for new employees?
This question demonstrates your eagerness to join the team as smoothly as possible. The answer will give you an idea of how the company supports new hires and prepares them for success.
2. What does a typical career path look like within the department?
Asking about career growth and progression showcases your ambition and long-term commitment to the company. Look for a detailed response indicating a clear path for skill development and advancement opportunities.
3. How is performance measured in this role?
Understanding how your work will be evaluated helps illustrate the company’s priorities and the specific goals they have for the position. This can help you prepare to meet those expectations from day one.
4. What immediate challenges is the team facing, and how can the person in this role contribute to addressing them?
This question displays your interest in problem-solving and your ability to think strategically. Plus, it offers insight into potential challenges you might encounter early in the role.
5. Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?
Learning about your potential team’s dynamics and work culture can help you gauge whether you will fit in well. Look for signs of collaboration, communication styles, and overall enthusiasm.
Keep these follow-up questions in mind during your phone interview to leave a strong impression and gather essential information to aid your decision-making process.