I have been with the Aureus Laboratory division for almost eight years and during this time I have discovered that one of the most vital skills a traveler possesses is the ability to have a successful phone interview. Once you have made it all the way through the process of developing your profile, getting submitted for a few positions, and have received an interview request, it is up to you to shine!
Interviews can be intimidating and stressful… if you are not prepared! More and more managers are calling candidates for interviews without warning. You might get an unexpected call and have very little time to prepare at that moment. Be sure you are ready when you get that call!
If you invest time toward your interview preparation, not only will you increase your confidence but you will receive more job offers as a result!
Here are a few of my top interview tips for travelers:
- Smile! A phone interview is a bit of a challenge because you cannot give a firm handshake and provide other nonverbal communications such as smiling and nodding. Your tone of voice has to communicate all of this! Be aware of how you sound and be sure your voice is communicating excitement and interest.
- Allow the manager to run the interview. They likely have a format they follow and typically leave time for any questions you might have at the end. Talking over someone or interrupting can really give off the wrong impression.
- It is an open book test! Take notes about the positions when your recruiter talks with you about opportunities. Have those notes AND your resume in front of you as a reference in case you draw a blank or they ask specifics on assignment dates or equipment you have used.
- Know your answers before they ask! What are your strengths? What are your weaknesses? Tell me about yourself – you should have three strengths, at least one weakness, and a brief synopsis of what you want to communicate when the hiring manager asks you to tell them about yourself. Have these on a note card or even memorized!
- Be honest but sell yourself! You may be asked about your experience regarding a particular job duty or piece of equipment. Be honest if you do not have that experience but don’t stop there! What else do you have to offer? You may say something such as, “No I have not used that computer system but I have used a similar system,” or “No, but I take notes while I’m being trained and catch on quickly,” or whatever would apply to you.
- Seal the deal! The best way to finish an interview is to leave the manager with the impression that you are interested. Thank the person for the time they took to speak with you and let them know that you are excited about the opportunity.
Cathy Mutz started with Aureus Medical Group in 2007 as a Recruiter in the Laboratory division. She became an Account Manager in that division in 2011. In 2015, Cathy became the Team Lead over Recruitment and the newly created Student Outreach in the Laboratory Division. She grew up in California but has lived in Omaha for most of her life. She attended the University of Nebraska-Omaha. During her down time, Cathy loves spending time with her nephew (3) and niece (4 months). She’s also a foodie who likes to cook and try new restaurants. On top of that, she enjoys working out, traveling, and marathon-watching Netflix.