As leading Houston IT recruiters, Murray Resources knows that in today’s employment landscape, the phone screen is oftentimes the first step in the interview process. But if you’ve never been through one before, how can you approach it successfully – so you’re invited in for a face-to-face interview? Start by following these tips:

Treat it like an in-person interview.

Some IT job candidates approach phone screens too casually. They don’t think they hold as much weight as more formal interviews and therefore don’t require a lot of preparation. But a phone screen can be your ticket into the hiring process. If you bomb it, then don’t expect a call back.

Choose a good time and place.

Don’t schedule a phone screen during a time when you know all the kids will be home. You need to be able to focus not only on what the interviewer is saying, but also on promoting yourself and your technical accomplishments. So be sure you set it up at a time and in a place where you know you can have some peace and quiet.

Do your homework.

Make sure that before your phone screen you do your homework. That means researching the company online so you understand who they are and what they do. Also, review the job description and make a list of your strengths, skills, and accomplishments that are most relevant to the position. During a phone screen, you can even keep a “cheat sheet” of the career highlights you want to communicate right next to you since the interviewer can’t see you. Also be sure to practice your answers to some commonly asked interview questions.

Be prepared.

Before the phone screen begins, be sure to have a copy of your resume nearby so you can reference it if needed. Also keep a notebook and pen handy so you can jot down any important details or thoughts during the interview. In addition, if your cell phone regularly drops calls, have the interviewer call you on a land line. The last thing you want are technical difficulties that can cause you to lose focus. And finally, have a glass of water on hand in case your throat gets dry from talking.

Be professional.

That means no chewing gum or eating during the phone screen. Also, make sure you don’t interrupt the interviewer or try to talk over them. And speak slowly and clearly.

Before the end of the conversation, don’t forget to ask about next steps. That way, you know what to expect – and when.

Do you need more help acing interviews or finding great IT job opportunities? Call the experts at Murray Resource. As leading Houston IT recruiters, we can connect you with jobs and employers that are the right fit for you. Send us your resume or contact us today to learn more.