Working World

I am moving and job hunting long distance. I know companies are reluctant to hire "outsiders" they cannot interview easily, so I put "will relocate at own expense" on my resume. I am scheduled for a phone interview with the vice president of my first-choice firm. He started with, "You're just the person I've been looking for." I've arranged to do the telephone interview from home (as long as I don’t have distractions from my house, husband or two-year-old). Any tips for handling the long distance job interview?

You can start from a base of confidence. He decided to call you. Remember how good you are. Be appreciative but not too needy, though clear that you're ready to move. Explain that while you understand relocation might mean a lateral shift, you're looking for a company that wants to benefit from your continuing development.

Remember your goal: Get to the next interview. If he asks about salary, quote a number that includes the value of your benefits package. You can say that's market in your current metro area. Ask how that compares to their scale (high, med, low?). Then go back to selling yourself: the importance of a good fit and your interest in his company's mission.

Be sure you have time to shower and eat before the call. Send your hubby and child to the park so you have no distractions. Put your energy into this, not just your voice. Pretend you're in the same room. Use body language and eye contact as though you're interviewing with him in person. Make sure you have a range of tones and themes: serious, committed and professional; schmoozy, playful and optimistic; solid, reliable and organized. It'll all come across the wires.