How can I improve phone interviewing process?

Question

Many of my first round interviews are done over the phone; however, I only have a cell phone, and so when recruiters and employers call to interview me, I am often nervous and have trouble hearing everything they have to say and often need to ask them to repeat their questions because of the not-so-perfect reception from my wireless carrier.

They are often happy to repeat questions for me, or repeat statements to me that I had trouble hearing, but it still frustrates me and just makes me more nervous than necessary. Additionally, I always feel the need to overcompensate and speak very loudly, for fear that they cannot hear me due to my speaking from a cell phone.

(If this is relevant, I have an iPhone, and my carrier is Sprint, so, I do have a decent cell phone and wireless carrier ...)

I try to do my best, e.g. going to a quiet room to conduct the interview.

What else can I do to improve my phone interview skills, when I only have a cell phone and not a landline phone? I'm easily frustrated, upset, annoyed, overly nervous and likely overly loud.

I really wish to meet them in person, but I understand that's not feasible for them, given the number of applicants that they'd rather screen first, before progressing to the next round.

Answer 1

The most important thing you must accept: having some emotions during the interview is perfectly normal!!

The best way to deal with emotions is:

• be aware of them - and actively maintain your awareness of the emotions during the interview; based on this awareness, you "work" to diminish them to a maintainable level which is comfortable for you;
• breathe deeply and controlled - in this way, your brain will get extra oxygen which will further help you.

Technical aids:

• use headphones, even when indoors;
• find a spot where reception is good, and stop moving - even if walking around helps you control emotions.