How to Prepare for Every Interview Format: Phone, Zoom, and In-Person

With the current hybrid working landscape, hiring process often includes a mix of interview formats—phone interviews, Zoom (virtual) interviews, and in-person interviews. Each format comes with its own expectations and best practices, and being well-prepared can make a significant difference in how you present yourself to potential employers.

The best way to feel confident heading into a first round interview is to be fully prepared for every possible medium you may come across. Whether you’re re-entering the workforce, transitioning careers, or pursuing a new role, here’s a professional breakdown of how to prepare for each interview format with confidence.

Phone Interviews: Early-Stage Screening and What to Expect

A phone interview is typically one of the first steps in the hiring process. Employers use it as a screening tool to assess your basic qualifications, communication skills, and overall fit before investing time in a longer virtual or in-person interview. These can benefit candidates as a lower stress environment to get to know the recruiter or hiring manager quickly without a full face to face interaction.

How to Prepare for a Phone Interview

1. Confirm the Interview Details
Double-check the scheduled date and time, and confirm who will be calling you. Know their name, title, and the company they’re representing.

2. Research the Company and Job Description
Even if it’s a brief screening call, you should understand the company’s mission, culture, and the role’s key responsibilities. Nothing stops a call quicker than a clear lack of interest in role you are discussing.

3. Charge Your Phone
Avoid interruptions due to low battery by ensuring your phone is fully charged. Close out any apps that may alert you or distract you from the call at hand.

4. Set a Professional Voicemail
In case you miss the call, a polished voicemail message reflects professionalism and reliability.

5. Choose a Quiet, Distraction-Free Environment
Avoid public places and background noise. Find a quiet room and turn off other devices. Your interviewer should be able to hear you clearly.

6. Have Your Resume Ready
Keep a copy of your resume and job description nearby for easy reference. With so little time to have a conversation, you shouldn’t burn time looking for documents to reflect on.

7. Prepare Notes and Talking Points
Jot down key achievements or industry-specific keywords to refer to during the call.

8. Practice Interview Questions
Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers. Consider running through questions with a mentor or friend.

9. Keep Your Tone Friendly and Conversational
Without visual cues, your tone and energy make a big impact, make sure they can hear your interest through the phone.

10. Prepare a Few Thoughtful Questions
Have 1–2 relevant questions ready, but don’t overwhelm the interviewer with too many.

Zoom Interviews: Mid-Stage Evaluation and Virtual Presence

A Zoom interview—or any type of virtual interview—typically occurs mid-way through the hiring process. This format allows hiring managers to assess your professionalism, communication skills, and how well you present yourself on camera.

How to Prepare for a Zoom Interview

1. Select a Professional Background
Use a tidy, neutral background that you know won’t have a lot of activity behind you. Or choose a simple virtual one with minimal detail. Avoid clutter and distractions.

2. Ensure a Quiet Space and Strong Internet Connection
Find a location with minimal noise and test your internet speed ahead of time.

3. Silence Notifications
Turn off phone and computer notifications to avoid disruptions during the interview.

4. Charge Your Device
Make sure your laptop or tablet is fully charged or plugged in.

5. Dress Professionally
Dress as you would for an in-person interview—head to toe. Avoid the temptation to dress only from the waist up. Dress for success.

6. Practice Using Zoom
Familiarize yourself with how to join meetings, adjust camera/microphone settings, and troubleshoot common issues.

7. Log in Early
Join the meeting 5–10 minutes in advance to avoid technical hiccups, and test your microphone and camera before they join.

8. Stay Focused and Engaged
Look at the camera when speaking and maintain eye contact to show attentiveness. Even though you are not face to face, body language still translates through video.

9. Prepare Questions and Be Ready to Take Notes
Have a few questions prepared, and keep a notepad handy to jot down important points.

In-Person Interviews: Final Round Evaluation and Personal Interaction

An in-person interview typically comes at the final stage of the hiring process. It offers the employer a complete picture of who you are—how you carry yourself, engage with others, and fit within their team.

How to Prepare for an In-Person Interview

1. Research the Company and Industry
Go beyond the basics. Be prepared to discuss recent news, industry trends, or the company’s latest initiatives. Take the added time to set yourself up for success long term.

2. Practice Your Interviewing Skills
Work on both your verbal responses and body language. A firm handshake, confident posture, and clear answers all matter.

3. Know the Interview Location and Arrival Time
Plan your route in advance and aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early. Account for the possibility of traffic and the time it may take to park.

4. Know Who You’re Meeting
Understand their names and titles. This will help you personalize your responses and show respect for their time.

5. Dress Professionally and Appropriately
Follow the company’s dress code guidelines if provided. When in doubt, business professional is always a safe choice.

6. Bring Essentials
Pack copies of your resume, references, a notebook, and a pen. These show preparedness and professionalism.

Ready to Take the Next Step in Your Job Search?

No matter the format—phone interview, Zoom interview, or in-person interview—being well-prepared demonstrates your commitment and professionalism. Each stage is an opportunity to leave a lasting impression and move one step closer to landing the job.

If you’re exploring new opportunities or considering a career transition, connect with one of our expert recruiters at Professional Alternatives. We specialize in matching candidates with top employers and can help guide you through every step of the hiring process—from resume prep to interview coaching. Check out our currently open positions, or submit your resume to be automatically considered for role that match your skills and career goals.

Start your job search with confidence. Reach out to Professional Alternatives today and take the next step toward your future.