"Can I call you back? Im in the bathroom"

What would you think if you were an employer and called a potential employee and received that response? Mort importantly what would you do? You probably wouldnt call him/her back for an interview right? Neither would I, yet I can recall several times when I called a job seeker back and got a similar response: "Im in the bathroom," "I was feeding my kids," I'm on vacation...Vacation??? vacation from what??? You dont even have a job!!!

Lets talk about phone etiquette:
In a world where many communicate via email, I think people have forgotten their phone manners or how to talk onthe phone, which is often the first "introduction" to a potential employer or recruiter who may be placing you in a job.

Regardless of who you are speaking with, keep in mind it is always a potential opening you are speaking about.
1) Do not have loud music or any music at all for that matter, on your voice mail/answering machine. A CEO or his/her HR representative does not want to hear 80's Bon Jovi music or your child's voice saying "leave a message for my mommy!"
Keep the voicemail message clear and short but positive and possibly leave your first name. That would be appropriate.
2)Do make sure when you call a recruiter/employer back, that you are in a quiet location, free of too much external noise or disruption.
3) Do get dressed to make the call. Sitting in your pj's will make you feel you are talking to your girlfriend or mom. Neother of whom can hire you, except if your friend happens to be the employer! Even in that case, it is always good to be dressed appropriately.
4)Have your resume available- to refer to. Many times we forget key things we did in previous positions. You wont have a chance to go over all of your work, over the phone but you will most likely have a moment to highlight your top skills, which can get you the in person interview.

More to follow..good luck!
Ellie Advisor