Job Tuition

Telephone Etiquette for Job Seekers

December 18th, 2006 by Andrew

In today’s job market, you will likely conduct much of your networking and job searching remotely. The combination of email and telephones makes meeting in person almost superfluous, except when actual interview time comes. Thus, having a firm grasp on telephone etiquette is essential for any job seeker. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Be courteous and polite

It should go without saying, but appropriate and formal manners should be used at all times during any job search. This rule definitely applies to the telephone.

Think about it. The first interaction anyone will have with you is likely to be over the phone. Since first impressions are so important, you do not want to be rude or impolite during these initial phone interactions.

Record a simple voicemail greeting

Part of being courteous with telephone interaction is being professional. Since employers might reach your voicemail when they call, you definitely want a professional greeting. If your current greeting was recorded at a party a couple weeks ago, redo it. Don’t try to be funny. Be simple, professional, and to-the-point.

Something like this would work well: “Hello, you have reached Andrew’s voicemail. Please leave a message.” Be sure to include your name and/or phone number in the greeting, so callers will know that they are in the correct voicemail.

Return calls promptly

The other day I overheard someone talking about his voicemail. He commented that he rarely checks it and hardly ever returns any calls that he misses. Don’t be like this.

Employers are looking for candidates who are prompt, responsible, and reachable. If an employer cannot even reach you to schedule an interview, why would they want to hire you? If you are searching for a job, be sure to check your voicemail daily and return any important calls promptly.

Leave voicemail messages when you call

How do you expect to connect with someone, if you never leave a voicemail when you call? Employers and recruiters are usually busy people, so it is crucial to leave a clear voicemail message if you do not reach them directly.

The basic rules of voicemail messages are simple:

1. Leave your name and phone number twice, slowly the second time
2. Provide a context for your call (e.g., scheduling interview, application follow-up)
3. Keep it short and direct

Think outside the phone

Finally, try to apply these principles and ideas to all of your interaction with employers. These are basic ideas to aid communication and develop a coherent, professional image. They can be applied to email, letters, and even personal interaction. Continually hone your communication skills, and your career will be better off.