Making phone calls
You might need to telephone to enquire about a job so it’s important to prepare beforehand:
- Make sure you know the name and number of the employer.
- Use a private telephone in a quiet space where possible to enable you to phone without any interruptions.
- Make sure your phone has enough battery and you have a good signal
- Prepare what you are going to say.
- Have a copy of your CV and Skills Passport to hand to use as a prompt in case you are asked about qualifications, work experience, previous employment.
- Ask who you need to speak to regarding vacancies. If they don't have any current vacancies, ask how to find out about future vacancies - where will they be advertised and how can you apply?
- Speak clearly and do not be nervous of asking people to repeat things if you can't hear them or don't understand.
- Have paper and pen to hand nearby to take notes – for example any interview date and time if your contact has been successful over the phone.
- Prepare a message in case you encounter an answering machine or voicemail and make sure it includes your name, address and telephone number and who it is you were hoping to speak to.
- If the person that you need to speak to is busy, ask for a convenient time when you can call again, and give your name and contact details to the person you spoke to.

