Weddingbee boards

I did a phone interview once.  It led to a regular in-person interview.

I remember reading that it was a good idea to actually get dressed up in some kind of business attire.  Apparently you will sound more professional if you act/look the part.  I suppose they have a point... if I talk on the phone in my pajamas I'm more likely to curl up on the couch and get comfy.  They also said sit in a regular chair, upright, not laying down. 

It's also important to smile when you're talking on the phone.  People can actually tell when you're smiling over the phone.  If it helps, have a mirror where you are sitting so that you can gauge your emotions.  (I opted for no mirror because I didn't want to get distracted trying to watch myself talk in the mirror and end up not listening to the interviewer.)

Make sure you aren't on the computer and don't have your cell phone with you either.  You don't want any distractions, including pets or kids.  Just because it's a phone interview doesn't mean you should be less professional. 

If you don't understand what they are saying, do exactly what you would do in a regular interview.  Ask them politely to repeat the question or ask them what they meant specifically about it.

Good luck!