If you have been in the job market for a while, you are probably sending out several resumes every day. While you might not need to follow-up on every position you’ve applied for, we do suggest that you follow-up on positions you are particularly interested in. Before you sit down for another round of follow-up phone calls, read our advice below. A follow-up phone call is the first verbal interaction you have with a potential employer, so it’s important that you make a great impression.
- Find a quiet space:
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- Before dialing the number, make sure you are in an area free of any background noise. We suggest you make follow-up calls when you are home alone to avoid any interruptions from roommates, family members, etc.
- Turn off the television! Not only is having the television on a distraction from your conversation, a potential employer does not need to hear the opening credits of your favorite sitcom playing in the background.
- Call from indoors. While it might be nice to take a walk or sit out on the porch while you make your follow-up calls, the outdoors are full of unexpected noises and interruptions. Also, wind blowing into the speaker of your cell phone can make it hard for an employer to hear you.
- Be prepared:
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- If an employer gives you important information regarding a job opportunity, it is not polite to put them on hold so you can get something to write with. Make sure you have a pen and paper next to you before you start dialing!
- Have the job description next to you, so that you can clarify any questions you might have.
- Prepare a list of questions beforehand. Being on the phone with a potential employer is sure to make anyone nervous, which can also make you forgetful. If you have your questions written out in front of you, you will be sure to get them all answered.
- Know who to ask for:
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- Try to find the hiring manager’s name on the job description if possible, so that you know whom to ask for when you call.
- Calling to ask for someone specific will also make you sound more prepared and knowledgeable.
Lastly, don’t forget to smile! Smiling while you talk will translate in your voice, making you sound more confident and enthusiastic. Every step of your job search is important, so be sure that each interaction is polite and professional. As long as you heed our advice and keep a positive attitude, you will find yourself out of the job market in no time!
