So, instead of having a live, face-to-face interview, you have an over-the-phone interview instead. Does it sound easier? Don’t be so fast to judge.

With a phone interview, you lack all the visual clues from your selection committee, that could otherwise tell you how well they are responding to what you are saying. You also miss the opportunity to impress them with your upstanding manners and snazzy dressing.

But, all is not lost. There is still a lot you can communicate over the phone. At least you don’t have to travel. Here are some tips to make the most out of your phone interview:

1. Prepare in exactly the same way you would if you were going for an in-person interview. You will likely be asked the same questions, and need just as much preparation to present your answers smoothly and concisely.

2. Before the interview, dress up in your clean, pressed business clothes. Eat a healthy meal, brush your teeth, and get ready as if the panel could see you through the phone. You will feel better about yourself, hold your posture better, and this will come across over the phone. The panel will be able to hear your self-esteem and confidence in your voice.

3. Get rid of every distraction. Before the interview, make arrangements to have a room to yourself in the house, or if you can manage send everyone away from home for two hours (allow extra time to be sure of no interruptions). The last thing you need is a child (or an adult, for that matter) coming in and bugging you or distracting you during an important interview. Also, turn off the TV and radio and everything else that might draw even a little bit of your attention away from the conversation.

4. Be on time. This is just as important if you are calling them or if they are calling you. Make sure you are at the phone at least five minutes before the scheduled time, and free of distractions, so that you can calmly answer the phone or make the call at exactly the appointed time.

5. Have a glass of water next to you. If your mouth gets dry, you can take a sip right there without juggling the phone and glass and tap while trying to concentrate on the committee and come across as inconspicuous.

6. Most importantly of all: SMILE. They cannot see you, sure. I get this. But your smile will come through in your voice and inflections and the bounce in your personality. A more positive and cheerful person has a better chance of winning a scholarship than someone who sounds bored or nervous or insecure about themselves. Do not give the committee any reason to question why they should give you the money.

Copyright © 2007-2008

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