Proper Phone Etiquette for Job Hunting
Proper phone etiquette is important when job hunting. It can make the difference between being seen as a potential employee and having your resume placed in a shredder. There are many occasions on which you may need to use a phone, such as when you make and receive calls or leave your phone number on job applications so potential employers can contact you.
When to turn off your cell phone
If you are attending a job fair or interview, turn off your cell phone so it will not disturb anyone or disrupt proceedings. Doing so is considered good manners and you can call people back at a more appropriate time.
Attention
When talking to interviewers on the phone provide your full attention. If you have call waiting do not take any notice of the bleep which lets you know someone else is attempting to get through to you. They can wait or leave a message.
Answer phone messages
Have an answer phone so you do not miss hearing important news regarding interviews. However, remember that the message callers hear will affect how you are viewed. You need to retain a professional image when job hunting. Therefore, refrain from telling jokes, saying anything cute or playing amusing music.
The telephone message you produce should state who you are. People will then know they are about to leave a message on the correct answer phone. Provide an alternative contact number if possible so that you are easily reached.
Household members
If you are not the only person likely to pick up the phone at home make it clear to other household members that you are job hunting and need to retain a good image. Ask children not to pick up the phone and adults to be polite and respectful when answering it. It will also be helpful if they understand not to make a lot of noise while you are on the phone.
Answering a call
When you pick up the phone say hello clearly followed by your name. This way callers will know they have reached the right number and can then speak. When you talk, be clear and concise. Speak in an even tone and refrain from interrupting when a caller is talking.
If you are not clear about what you have heard, clarify by asking for further details. If necessary, take notes to refer to so you do not need to keep asking the same question.
Preparation
While job hunting you need to be ready for when prospective employers call. As well as keeping notepaper and a pen by the phone, keep a copy of your resume and details of job interviews you have attended. This way, you can refresh your memory if needs be without making this obvious and record information given.
Making a phone call
Before making a call know exactly what you are going to say. Practice if necessary, as this will give you confidence that will come across to a listener as you speak. Begin calls by saying who you are followed by why you are calling.
If possible use a landline when making calls, or at least make sure you are aware there will be good reception from where you ring if using a cell phone. This will mean you can avoid losing the signal as you have a discussion.
Try to make calls when you think the person you want to speak to is most likely to be available. This will probably be first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon. You should also return calls within a day rather than waiting any longer, as this is considered good etiquette.
By preparing well and keeping helpful information by the phone, you will find you appear better organized and confident when you make or answer calls. If you are also mindful about retaining a professional image and being polite, you can be sure that you are also following good telephone etiquette.
