Telephonic interviews are gaining popularity as an initial employment screening technique because they’re brief, save time, and often more cost-effective, especially for out-of-town candidates.
Accenture typically uses three types of interviews to gauge potential hires. These include the screening interview, the behavioral interview, and the case interview.
The phone interview is a screening interview where you will be asked your skills, work experience, and achievements.
It may be a telephonic interview at Accenture, but it’s important to take the phone interview as seriously as a face to face interaction.
Kim Monaghan, Founder of KBM Coaching & Consulting, writes: ”Mastering the phone interview doesn’t require a big investment of time — just focused concentration on preparation and practice.”
How to prepare for Accenture Telephonic Interview Questions:
1. Schedule the interview
It may seem that it’s possible to speak anytime, anywhere, but schedule the interview for a time when you’re free and distractions are at a minimum. Not when you’re waiting to pick up your child, are at the airport, or during the commute.
Multitasking may be a skill, but recruiters will know that your attention is meandering. So choose a time that works for you, and work at your prep.
2. Do your homework
Wouldn’t you research the company and the hiring manager thoroughly if you were scheduled to meet in person? Check resources like the company’s website, their social media, alumni/current employees, corporate literature, industry journals and publications, and all that you can lay your hands on.
Be prepared to answer the typical “What do you know about us?” A handwritten or online cheat sheet can be of great help.
3. Have questions ready
Sure the hiring manager has his or her list of questions for you, but having your own can make or break an interview.
Don’t just ask questions for the sake of asking them; use them to make the employer sit up and take note. Your questions should understand the company’s challenges, showcase your candidacy and reinforce your commitment.
Samples: What kinds of processes are in place to help me work collaboratively? What is the most important thing you would like me to accomplish in the first 60 days, if hired? Do you have any concerns about my being successful in this position?
4. Create a conducive environment
You’re at home, but a phone interview can sometimes end up being more stressful than a live one. Set up a room that no one else – spouse, children or pets – is allowed access to.
Shut out all distractions (that TV, too) and be ready 10 minutes early. Print out your résumé, highlight key sections you can talk about, and have a paper and pen handy (keyboard clicks can be distracting).
5. Listen first, talk later
Let the recruiter set the tone and take notes if you must so you can address all the points when it’s your turn to talk.
Talk, but never dominate the conversation – so keep answering questions, but ensure that it never turns into a solo session where only you are giving your inputs.
Finding a common theme – a similar challenge at your workplace and how you resolved it – can help you make a connect.
While talking stand or sit up; that slouch could find its way into your voice. Smiling as you speak can change the tone of the interview. Don’t forget to breathe and speak slowly and clearly.
6. End on a positive note
There’s something to be said for the power of positivity. Chances are you’ll end up landing the job if you and the employer hang up on a positive note. Sign off by thanking him or her for the chance to interview for Accenture.
State that you “like what I have heard and am confident that I can do the job well”, let it be known that you “would be pleased to meet you in person.
What is the next step”? Half a work day after the interview, send a brief email reiterating your interest, ability to do the job, and wish to take things to the next level.
FAQ on Preparation for Accenture Telephonic Interview
Q:1 How should I prepare for an Accenture telephonic interview?
A: Start by thoroughly researching Accenture, understanding their values and projects. Review common interview questions and practice concise, impactful responses.
Q:2 What topics should I focus on for Accenture telephonic interviews?
A: Emphasize your skills, experiences, and alignment with Accenture’s values. Be ready to discuss your achievements, problem-solving abilities, and adaptability.
Q:3 Are there specific technical questions in Accenture telephonic interviews?
A: Yes, anticipate technical questions related to your field. Accenture values technical proficiency, so review industry trends and Accenture’s recent projects.
Q:4 How can I showcase my knowledge of Accenture’s values during the interview?
A: Align your responses with Accenture’s core values like integrity, client value creation, and respect for the individual. Share examples that highlight these values in your experiences.
Q:5 Any tips for a successful Accenture telephonic interview?
A: Ensure a quiet environment, test your technology beforehand, and practice active listening. Be ready to discuss your resume in detail and ask insightful questions about Accenture’s culture and projects.
