Palmetto Proving Grounds

Don't surf the internet while doing the interview.

I don't know how other people feel about it, but I still pretend like the person is right in front of me. Sit up straight, stay focused on one thing, etc. The advantage of a phone interview is that you can have cheat sheets in front of you (resume, company info, etc). The disadvantage is that body language gets lost and you can't always tell if someone is kidding with you, how they interpret an answer, etc.

After going through 4 interviews with a company recently, I finally spoke to the director for the state of SC. I thought the interview went just as well as the previous four. I was told later that day that I didn't get the job because the interviewer "thought I seemed arrogant". I feel like I'm far from that and the previous four interviewers agreed. That's my only dislike for phone interviews. I feel like the interviewer can't really get a feel for a person without seeing them and reading body language, etc.

If you already work for the company, I would be very relaxed. They already think highly of you, obviously, and think you'll do a good job in your new position or else you wouldn't be interviewing. Like WKJ said, this interview likely won't make your or break you.

I hope this reaches you in time. I am a Technical Recruiter and have been for 14 years.
Here is info I send out:

Be Prepared to Interview
Prepare for a phone interview just as you would for a regular interview. Compile a list of your strengths and weaknesses, as well as a list of answers to typical phone interview questions: http://jobsearch.about.com/od/interviewquestionsanswers/a/phoneintervquest.htm

In addition, plan on being prepared for a phone conversation about your background and skills.
• Keep your resume in clear view, on the top of your desk, or tape it to the wall near the phone, so it's at your fingertips when you need to answer questions.
• Have a short list of your accomplishments available to review.
• Have a pen and paper handy for note taking.
• Turn call-waiting off so your call isn't interrupted.
• If the time isn't convenient, ask if you could talk at another time and suggest some alternatives.
• Clear the room - evict the kids and the pets. Turn off the stereo and the TV. Close the door.
• Unless you're sure your cell phone service is going to be perfect, consider using a landline rather than your cell phone to avoid a dropped call or static on the line.
Practice Interviewing
Talking on the phone isn't as easy as it seems. I've always found it's helpful to practice. Have a friend or family member conduct a mock interview and tape record it so you can see how you sound over the phone. Any cassette recorder will work. You'll be able to hear your "ums" and "uhs" and "okays" and you can practice reducing them from your conversational speech. Also rehearse answers to those typical questions you'll be asked.
During the Phone Interview
• Don't smoke, chew gum, eat, or drink.
• Do keep a glass of water handy, in case you need to wet your mouth.
• Smile. Smiling will project a positive image to the listener and will change the tone of your voice.
• Speak slowly and enunciate clearly.
• Use the person's title (Mr. or Ms. and their last name.) Only use a first name if they ask you to.
• Don't interrupt the interviewer.
• Take your time - it's perfectly acceptable to take a moment or two to collect your thoughts.
• Give short answers.
• Remember your goal is to set-up a face-to-face interview. After you thank the interviewer ask what the next step is and if you want the job, express that fact!

Thank you LCD. That is all great info.