It's not just about the interview itself. Having a well-planned strategy before going into an interview, even a phone interview, is important for success. Here's how to make a first impression that requires a second look

While it's true that dress, grooming, and body language often form the basis for our judgments about others, we can still convey likeability, credibility, and authority - the three hallmarks for successful first impressions in a telephone interview - if we know how to properly package, present, and promote ourselves.

Before the interview

1. Create the ideal interview setting
Find a quiet place and remove all distractions from your desk. Turn off your computer, put a "Do Not Disturb" sign on your door, and spend a minute or two before the interview to gather your thoughts.

2. Determine your unique selling proposition
This is made up of the three things that separate you from the other people who will be applying for the job. Perhaps it's your business contacts, educational background, or your ability to influence, motivate, and inspire. Maybe your education or training gives you an edge. Whatever your unique selling proposition, be sure to inventory case studies, examples, stories, or other proof to support your claims.

3. Develop criteria for your ideal work environment
This would be the environment in which you thrive. I work with clients to determine five to six "non-negotiables" in their job search. Some examples include:

• A flexible work schedule
• Lots of activity, multiple tasks, high-energy work environment
• Helping people, benefiting society
• Working independently
• Starting new projects
• Recognition for loyalty, dedication, and dependability
• Stability and security

4. Research
Do some research about the company, organisation or agency that is interviewing you.

5. Prepare Questions
Based upon your ideal work environment inventory and your research, develop questions about the position for the interview.

During the interview

6. Stand Up
Standing up will give your voice more power and allow you to think clearer.

7. The Million Dollar Question
Ask what I call the "million dollar question":

'Let's say that we are in your office a year from now, and you are telling me that I have done a terrific job for you this past year. What happened?'

8. Remember the 70/30 rule
During the interview, spend 70 percent of your time listening and only 30 percent talking.

9. Practice Active Listening Skills

• Make a commitment to listen
• Listen to understand first
• Reserve judgment until the speaker is finished
• Place your personal agenda aside
• Don't interrupt. Write down questions or comments for later
• React to message by strong eye contact, nodding, taking notes, and asking questions
• Briefly summarise and allow the speaker time to respond
• Listen with your eyes as well as your ears

10. Think on your Feet
Adjust your unique selling proposition to match the position, but only if it's true and you can back it up.

11. Work in your unique selling proposition at least three times during the interview
Use it once at the beginning to frame the interview, again when you answer questions, and finally at the very end of the interview as a summary. "If there's nothing else that you remember about my qualification, I hope you'll remember..."

12. 'Flex' Your Communication style to Match That Of the Interviewer
For example, if he or she is formal and to-the-point, be very professional and concise with your answers. If she or he is extremely personable, relax and take time to build the relationship.

At the end of the interview

13. Send a Thank You Letter
Send a thank you letter that again reinforces your unique selling proposition.

14. Send Follow-Up Material
Send any requested follow-up material immediately. It's an opportunity to show you are responsible and will follow through.

Making a strong first impression by phone can be accomplished as long as you approach the telephone interview with the same professionalism as you would a face-to-face meeting. These fourteen tips will not only help you to become a more powerful communicator during the interview process, but also after you're hired.

"The Career Engineer" Randy Siegel works with organisations to take high-potential employees and give them the leadership and communications skills they need to be successful. Subscribe to his free monthly e-Newsletter "Stand in Your Power!" here.