Phoning an employer

Question 1 Yes No Don't know  

Before making the call, have you completed research on the employer so that you have an understanding of what they do and the type of people they employ?

Question 2 Yes No Don't know  

Have you prepared a brief introduction to explain to the person answering the phone why you are calling, so that they can direct you to the right person?

Question 3 Yes No Don't know  

Have you developed a plan on what you are going to say, including introducing yourself, explaining what you are calling about and stating your skills and experience?

Question 4 Yes No Don't know  

Have you practiced what you are going to say to help you sound natural, friendly, confident and professional?

Question 5 Yes No Don't know  

Have you thought about answers to any questions the employer might ask you and developed answers to those questions?

Question 6 Yes No Don't know  

Is your resume close by so that you can refer to it when answering questions?

Question 7 Yes No Don't know  

If you have previously mentioned your disability to an employer, have you prepared answers to any questions the employer might ask? Are you aware of what employers can ask you about your disability?

Question 8 Yes No Don't know  

Have you considered whether you will need any adjustments or modifications if you are asked to attend an interview?

Question 9 Yes No Don't know  

Will you be calling the employer from somewhere quiet where you are sure you won’t be interrupted?

Question 10 Yes No Don't know  

Have you got a pen and paper ready to take notes?

Question 11 Yes No Don't know  

When calling employers, will you show that you are a good communicator, by speaking clearly and checking that they can hear you?

Question 12 Yes No Don't know  

If there is a vacancy, will you ask the employer for details on how you can apply or will you arrange an interview?

Question 13 Yes No Don't know  

If there is no vacancy, will you ask if you can arrange some work experience instead, or if you can send them your details for any future jobs?

Question 14 Yes No Don't know  

If they're too busy to take your call, will you ask if there’s a better time to phone and whether they prefer you to email or write to them (if you haven’t already)?

Question 15 Yes No Don't know  

When ending the call, will you thank the person very much for their time?

Question 16 Yes No Don't know  

Will you summarise any action you are going to take? For example, ‘Thank you very much Mr Jones and I’ll see you at your office at 10am on Monday with my resume and portfolio.’

Question 17 Yes No Don't know  

After making the call, will you follow through with what you said you would do?

Question 18 Yes No Don't know  

Will you go over the call and write down any notes that may help you in the future, such as new questions that you want to be prepared for next time?