You wrote a book and you have your first big phone interview, but you don’t have a clue what to do. How do you make sure you really shine? How do you come across as erudite, savvy and intelligent when much of your time as an author is spent alone in front of a computer screen? The following tips will help prepare you for a phone interview..
Tip 1: Ask the interviewer for his questions in advance! This will help you prepare and it’s an accepted practice. Not every interviewer will give them to you, but most will. Having the questions beforehand gives you needed time to frame your answers. Write down your notes and have them with you. Avoid word-for-word answers to keep an extemporaneous spirit.
Tip 2: One of the most important things you can do during a phone interview is to keep everything upbeat. Don’t apologize for any lacks. You wrote this book and you know you’re proud of your achievement. A phone interview is the place to air everything you are thrilled about. Leave your grievances about the experience for your tell-all exposé of the publishing industry.
Tip 3: Have your own agenda. Yes, it may be very interesting to the interviewer that you spent 10 years in a Buddhist monastery seeking inner peace, but now you write thrillers. You are being interviewed because you are an author of thrillers. You want folks to know about your book. Bring all questions with laser focus back to your book, because in the end your book is the real star.
Tip 4: Watch you p’s and q’s. No eating, drinking, or chewing gum during an interview. Put a cup of water nearby to wet your whistle as needed. Address your interviewer formally unless instructed otherwise. Take time and think about your answers. Speak slowly. This will help your interviewer to process your information more effectively. Don’t ramble on and on. Be succinct.
Tip 5: Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you are not. You are in the business of communicating. An interview is a form of communication. You have talent and determination. You worked hard to be in the place you are today, and you don’t need to change a thing. Be honest and forthright. You will shine.
Take these tips to heart and have fun. Your first phone interview should be a blast.