If you have recently applied for a job, be aware that a call from an unrecognised number could be a preliminary screening - don’t ignore it or in particularly answer in a blunt or casual tone as it could determine the success of your application. A phone-based graduate interview is considered as important as a face to face interview. Therefore, preparation is key. Ensure that you are not in a noisy environment such as a pub and have your CV handy to answer unexpected questions. If you are out and it is not convenient, politely ask whether it would be possible to be contacted at an alternative time. In the event that you do miss the call, ensure you have a professional voicemail set up for the employer to leave a message. When speaking to an employer on the phone, have a polite phone manner, speak slowly and enunciate clearly always aiming to convey the same level of dedication, enthusiasm and professionalism as you would if you were meeting in person.
