An employer’s hiring decision is certainly based on qualifications, but in addition, many are looking for attitude. Through our voice and body language, we may be conveying a different message to employers than is true about us. “Body language and facial expressions can send signals that you have no energy, can’t focus or just don’t care. Regardless of your stellar qualifications and positive words, you’re not likely to get a job offer, career experts say.” (Arizona Republic August 24, 2003.) How you say it is as important as what you say.

More often than not, Workampers will find themselves having a telephone interview rather than an in-person interview. Did you ever stop to think that you convey similar messages - positive or negative - through your body language in a telephone interview?

Perhaps by coincidence there was also an article in this issue on interviewing by telephone. In the article, Conor Cunneen, president of a consulting firm, suggested you stand up when taking the call. You’ll present yourself with greater confidence and enthusiasm. He also suggested standing in front of a mirror so you can check your reflection. Is it positive? Are you smiling?

Believe me, an interviewer can “hear” these things in your voice.

Use a tape/digital recorder

One way to improve your telephone interviews is to record yourself describing your work experience and answering typical questions. Perhaps a spouse or friend could ask you questions while sitting behind you. Answer into the phone as if it were a real interview with the recorder on. Play it back. You may be surprised to hear your voice and expression are rather wooden or you hesitate while searching for your answers. If that’s the case, repeat your answers with expression and keep repeating into the recorder until you do hear a natural voice, enthusiasm, confidence, and that smile.

Thinking on your feet

Have trouble thinking on your feet? Here are some suggestions for handling questions.

• Repeat the question: First, gain time to collect your thoughts by either repeating the question or say something like, “That’s a very good question.” You will actually come across as more thoughtful than if you jump in and trip over your words.
• Practice: Another hint is to write out and practice typical interview questions. Often you can anticipate questions and think about your answer ahead of time. Most interview questions are variations on your experience, why you think you are suited for this job, questions about your strengths and weaknesses.
• Don’t read your answers: At first you may want to have your answers written out and perhaps highlight key words so you can locate your answer quickly. Your answers will sound more natural if you don’t read them so the goal is to practice enough so they sound like normal conversation.
• Don’t memorize your answers: It’s best not to memorize word-for-word either. Ever gotten a phone call from a new telemarketer? You can’t help but picture a young person moving his or her finger along the words while reading aloud. They sound awkward.

Another factor to consider is what phone you use. Public phones can be noisy so if you must use one find one in a quiet location. Be sure you know where it is well ahead of time so you aren’t scrambling. If you use your cell phone make sure you are in a good reception area and your battery is fully charged. Take the call in a place where you won’t be distracted and can talk in a normal voice, using expression, and not feeling self-conscious.

It may seem ironic that it takes practice to sound natural. For many of us that’s the reality. The payoff is getting the job you want.