I received a call yesterday from an employer requesting an interview with me for an open Executive Assistant position they had. Before letting him know the times I was available he stated that I had the option of having the interview over the phone or in person. I instinctively answered that I would prefer an in-person interview and confirmed the time. After I hung up the phone it got me thinking of reasons why one would prefer a phone interview and I could really only come up with two. One, the position is out of town and logistically it is preferable to travel costs. Or two, you really can’t find a single thing to wear.
I have had a few phone interviews over the last 18 months and I’m really not a fan. I usually hang up feeling like I could have done something else to be more memorable. Interviews are an opportunity for the employer to get a taste of who you are as a whole person, not just a voice over the phone restating the qualifications you’ve already sent them on paper. A potential employer needs to see that you take pride in yourself and that will reflect on how you would represent their business. Now, I don’t believe it matters in the least bit what brand of slacks you are wearing, but I do think that being able to show an employer how professional you are does. So show off your smile and that cute little skirt suit you got on sale! By the end of your first meeting the employer should be able to put a face, appearance, and mannerisms to the awesome qualities you’ve got on paper. Always go the extra mile (literally) and schedule an in-person interview.
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