A telephone interview is a common way for a company to get a high-level feel for candidates who applied for an open position before inviting them in for an in-person interview.
These calls are usually scheduled beforehand, allowing you to prepare for the call. You may get a call out of the blue, but impromptu interview calls are uncommon (and, in my opinion, highly unprofessional).
It’s critically important to put your best foot forward during your phone interview. This is the first (and hopefully not the last!) time the company interacts with you. It’s your time to shine.Make the call work in your favor. Here’s how.
The significant advantage of a telephone interview is that you can keep various notes right in front of you during the interview (this would be awkward during an in-person interview!).
Your notes should include the job requirements, your resume, a few questions that you want to ask the interviewer at the end (always ask questions at the end of your interview), and high-level details about the company.
Whenever I’m on an important call, I stand and walk around rather than sit still. I also talk with my hands, even on the phone. Again, standing, walking, and using your hands will help you sound more forceful and confident.