3 Phone Interview Tips You Probably Missed [VIDEO]

business woman with a computer laptop and phone

Phone interviews are scary! Many of us present well in person but we may not be given a chance!

Here is a question I received this week from a Bean Counter reader:

Hi Andrew, do you have any tips for a phone interview?

I don’t recall if you have written an article on that on your blog I recently emailed the recruiters using your setup Grant Thornton reply and said someone is gonna contact me soon.

I just want to make sure I am ready when she call me.

Here are three phone interview tips I would use stand out.

  1. Research the public accounting firm or company before the call
  2. Prepare no less than three questions to ask them about the company or position
  3. Most importantly, when you are on the phone, remember to smile. This helps keep an upbeat tone to your voice!

I walk through each of these in this new video as part of #AskTBC.

#AskTBC is a new video blog series where YOU ask questions, and I’ll answer them! Ask me a question on twitter or email me at andrew@thebeancounter.com.

I would also remember to prepare for ANY question they could ask you:

  •  Tell me about yourself.
  • Why do you want to work at “X” company?
  • Why is “X” firm your first choice?
  • Describe a situation where you felt challenged and had to overcome it.
  • Do you have any questions for me?
  • Who else are you interviewing with?
  • Do you have any other offers?
  • Describe a time when you had to work exceptionally hard to provide great service to a customer or client. What did you do and what was the outcome?
  • What accomplishment are you most proud of?
  • Give me an example of how you successfully dealt with someone who was difficult.
  • Why are you interested in this particular area of the firm?
  • Give me an example of a time you failed.
  • Give me an example of a time you succeeded.
  • What’s the most difficult thing you’ve ever had to do?
  • Give me examples of how well you work under pressure.
  • What are you looking to get out of a job/internship with a public accounting firm?
  • Where do you see yourself in five years?
  • What city do you want to live in?
  • What are your strengths?

See more interview questions

  • Old Bean Fan

    Andrew, I found that many interviewers inquire if you are inclined to ask for help when you struggle with a difficulty at work.

    • http://www.thebeancounter.com TheBeanCountercom

      You answer should be ABSOLUTELY YES! I would say, “I always try to give my best effort, but every few hours (or once a day) I typically bulk up the questions I have and the things I am struggling with and try to walk through it with my manager for 5-10 minutes. That way I keep the ball rolling and don’t waste time on things that could have an easy answer!”