Phone interviews are growing in popularity as a means to screen potential candidates. For job seekers, this means that you must be prepared at any time to ace a phone interview. First impressions are crucial in this process, from the tone of your voice to the words you choose when answering the phone.

Here are 5 key practices to ensuring a successful phone interview:

1. Know the specifics of your interview

Is your interviewer calling you or are you meant to call them? Clarifying the details of a phone interview will save you from missed opportunities or appearing unprofessional. Also, if your interview is scheduled in advance, make sure you double-check the agreed upon time and account for any difference in time zones. 

2. Have Your Questions Ready

While your interviewer will be the one primarily asking questions, often you will be given the opportunity to do so as well. A phone interview is a good chance to voice any questions you may have in order for both parties to determine if the job is a good match. But before you ask your questions make sure you’ve done your research—know all there is to about the company and position you’re applying for ahead of time. 

3. Prepare Your Space

A phone interview may seem less stressful than an in-person one; however, there are many ways it can go wrong. Fortunately, a little preparation can go a long way with a phone interview. For example, make sure you have a quiet, closed-door space to talk without interruptions. Additionally, it is a good idea to have your resume on hand and notes for how you plan to answer certain interview questions. 

4. Communicate Your Interest

Because your interviewer cannot see your face, body language, or dress, you must pay close attention to what you are using to communicate—your voice and words. Take care to maintain an upbeat and confident tone, rather than a tired or distracted one. From your first words answering the phone you should strive to convey a professional persona. Instead of answering with a “hi, how’s it goin’?” Pick up the phone with a simple, formal “Hello” and state your name. 

5. Follow Up

At the conclusion of your interview you must clarify what the next step in the application process is. Whether an in-person interview or a follow-up call in a few days, you should know what is expected of you. And just as with in-person interviews, a hand-written thank-you is an appropriate way to follow up after your phone interview.

With the risk of being interrupted or misunderstood, phone interviews present specific challenges; however, with these key steps these challenges can be minimized successfully.