How to Win Your Phone Job Interview in Malta

While phone job interviews are usually scheduled via email, you might occasionally receive an unannounced call. If you are an active job seeker, answer unfamiliar numbers professionally, assuming it could be a recruiter.

It is easy to excel during a remote screening and get closer to landing the job if you follow these simple, practical tips.

Preparing for the Phone Interview

Do your research: As a golden rule for any job interview, learn about the company’s operations and culture. Review their website, social media, and recent news. If you know anyone working there, ask them for insider insights.

Take notes: Without visual cues, it is easy for your attention to wander. Keep a pen and notepad on your desk. Write down a checklist, quick reminders, and any questions you want to ask the employer.

Have your CV handy: Keep a copy of your CV, your cover letter, and the job description right in front of you. Creating a brief “cheat sheet” can help you find answers quickly if nerves make you forget your train of thought. If you need help polishing your documents before applying, check out our guide on How to Write a CV for Malta: Top Free CV Templates. Remember: Notes are just a guide - do not read full sentences directly from the paper!

Set the scene: Create a quiet environment where nobody can interrupt you. A calm setting lowers your stress and helps you focus. Stand or sit up straight in a distraction-free room to help you breathe deeply and speak with more power.

Secure your technology: Ensure your mobile phone is fully charged and that you have a strong signal. Avoid using your phone's loudspeaker, as it picks up background noise and can make your voice sound muffled. Instead, block out background noise by wearing headphones or earbuds. Put your phone on 'do not disturb' mode so incoming notifications do not interrupt your flow.

During the Phone Interview

Be on time: Be ready at least ten minutes before the scheduled call. Settling in early ensures you sound prepared and confident the moment you answer.

Answer professionally: If you live with others, let them know you are expecting an important call so they stay quiet and do not answer the phone for you. Pick up by stating your full name clearly (e.g., "Hello, this is John Doe speaking"). This saves both of you from awkward small talk and sets a professional tone immediately. For more advice on making a strong first impression, read our tips on how to Answer "Tell Me About Yourself" in a Job Interview in Malta.

Listen carefully and speak clearly: Recruiters cannot read your body language, so your tone of voice is everything.

• Do not interrupt: Let the interviewer finish their question before you speak.
• Pace yourself: Speak fluently but at a moderate pace. If a question is complex, it is perfectly fine to pause for a second to collect your thoughts.
• Use verbal cues: Because the interviewer cannot see you nod, use short acknowledgements like "I see" or "Right" to show you are actively listening.

If you want to practice your responses beforehand, review the 10 Most Common Interview Questions and Answers so you are never caught off guard.

Dress for success: Dress just as you would for an in-person meeting. Even though the interviewer cannot see you, wearing professional clothes helps put you in a focused, business-ready mindset.

It is also important to research the company’s culture beforehand, as dress codes can vary by industry. For example, many gaming and tech companies in Malta adopt a smart-casual or casual work environment rather than formal business attire. Aligning your tone and mindset with the company culture helps you feel more prepared and present yourself appropriately. 

Keep smiling: Smiling while you talk creates a warm, friendly, and enthusiastic tone. Enthusiasm is contagious and leaves a highly positive impression.

Avoid multitasking and eating: Give the interview your absolute, undivided attention. Do not type, clean, or browse the internet. Furthermore, never eat, chew gum, or smoke during the call. It is highly disrespectful. Keep a glass of water nearby to prevent your throat from going dry.

Ask thoughtful questions: When invited to ask questions, always take the opportunity. It shows you are genuinely interested in the role. Consider asking:

• How would you describe the ideal candidate for this position?
• What does a typical day look like in this role?
• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

After the Phone Interview

End on a positive note: Thank the interviewer for their time and express your gratitude for the opportunity. Let them know you are keen to meet face-to-face or via video to discuss the role further.

Send a thank-you note: Shortly after hanging up, send a brief thank-you email. This keeps your name fresh in their mind and reinforces your professionalism.

Follow up patiently: Companies take time to choose the best candidates. Never chase the recruiter before the deadline they gave you. If that date passes with no news, send a polite follow-up email to check on the process.

Stay in touch: If you do not get the job, do not take it personally. Connect with the interviewer on LinkedIn. Nurturing your professional network is a crucial step in building a successful career in Malta.

Now that you are equipped with the skills to ace your phone job interview, it is time to put them into practice. With over 1,800 open vacancies across Malta's top industries, from iGaming and finance to tourism and tech, your next great career move is just a click away. Browse open jobs on jobsinmalta today and take the first step towards landing your dream role!