Ever gotten that call from a potential employer while you’re in a noisy matatu or at a busy market? Phone interviews are common, but si rahisi. This guide breaks down eight key techniques to help you ace that call and land the job.
We’ll cover how to prepare your space, answer questions with confidence, and handle those tricky moments. Knowing these tips gives you a real edge in Kenya’s competitive job market.
Treat It Like a Real Interview
Many people think a phone interview is just a casual chat to confirm details. That’s a big mistake. It is a full, formal screening to see if you proceed to the next stage. Your performance on this call determines everything.
Prepare Your Environment Like an Office
You cannot take this call from a noisy kibanda or a matatu stage. Find a quiet, private room with good network. Inform your family or roommates in advance, just like you would book a meeting room at a place like Kenya Power or the Co-operative Bank headquarters.
Dress for Success, Even on the Phone
Wearing proper interview attire, not just your home clothes, puts you in the right professional mindset. It changes how you sit and speak. This mental shift is critical for projecting confidence to the person on the other end of the line.
Mastering the Practical Details
Beyond mindset, the actual setup and logistics can make or break your call. You need to handle these details with the same seriousness as submitting documents on the eCitizen portal. A small technical glitch can cost you the opportunity.
Here are the non-negotiable practical steps:
- Ensure your phone is fully charged and you have at least KES 50 of airtime or a stable data bundle to avoid being cut off mid-sentence.
- Have a pen, notepad, your CV, and the job description printed or open on another device. This is your reference material, just like having your KRA PIN and ID during an official process.
- Test your reception in your chosen spot by calling a friend. Background noise from a nearby construction site or a barking dog is unprofessional and distracting.
- Be ready 10 minutes before the scheduled time. The interviewer from a company like Safaricom or Equity Bank will likely call exactly on time, and you must answer promptly.
Common Pitfalls That Can Sabotage Your Chance
Answering While Multitasking
Do not try to check your email, cook, or scroll on X during the call. The interviewer can hear the distraction in your voice. Give the conversation your full, undivided attention as if you were in their office.
Speaking Too Fast or Using Sheng Excessively
Nervousness can make you speak rapidly. Slow down and enunciate. While a little Sheng can show personality, overusing it or slang like “vipi” or “noma” can seem unprofessional. Stick to clear, professional English.
Being Caught Off Guard by Basic Questions
You must be ready to concisely explain your CV and why you want the role. Do not fumble or say “I applied for many jobs.” Have a specific, prepared answer about why you want to work for that company, like KCB or Nation Media Group.
Forgetting to Ask Your Own Questions
When they ask if you have questions, never say “no.” Prepare two intelligent questions about the role or team. This shows genuine interest and turns the interview into a conversation, not an interrogation.
Kenya-Specific Interview Nuances
The local context is key. Many interviews happen in the late morning or early afternoon. Be aware of the rainy season, as heavy downpours in Nairobi can cause power cuts or terrible network. Have a backup plan, like moving to a location with a generator or using a different network provider as a hotspot.
Cultural respect is paramount. Always start the call with a polite greeting like “Good morning” or “Hello.” Use titles like “Mr.” or “Ms.” unless the interviewer invites you to use their first name. It’s also common for interviewers from established firms to ask about your long-term plans in Kenya or your of the local market.
A very practical tip: if the call is scheduled during typical lunch hour (1-2 PM), ensure you have eaten beforehand. You do not want your stomach rumbling loudly on the call, which is considered unprofessional. Also, keep a glass of water nearby to avoid a dry throat, especially in our often-dusty urban areas.
The Bottom Line
A phone interview is your first real audition for the job, not an informal chat. By preparing your space, mastering the details, and avoiding common pitfalls, you turn a simple phone call into a powerful opportunity to stand out. Your professionalism and preparation on that call are what get you the invitation for a face-to-face meeting.
Your next step? Before your next scheduled call, do a full practice run with a friend. Ask them to grill you with common questions and give you honest feedback on your clarity and confidence. Pole pole, you’ll master it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Phone Interviews: 8 Important Success Techniques You Need to Know in Kenya
What if I lose network or the call drops during the interview?
This happens often with our networks. Stay calm and call back immediately. Apologise briefly for the technical issue and politely ask them to continue. Most interviewers in Kenya are .
To prevent this, use a landline if possible or ensure you are in a strong network zone. Having the interviewer’s direct number from the initial call can also save you.
Is it okay to ask about the salary during a phone interview?
It is generally not advised to bring up salary first in the initial screening call. The focus should be on your fit for the role. Let the interviewer guide that conversation.
If they ask about your expectations, have a researched, realistic range in KES ready. Know the market rate for that position in Nairobi, Mombasa, or your specific town.
How long does a typical phone interview last in Kenya?
Most screening calls last between 15 and 30 minutes. They are designed to be concise. Be prepared to give clear, to-the-point answers without long stories.
If your interview goes significantly beyond 30 minutes, it’s often a good sign they are deeply interested in your profile and experience.
Can I do the interview from my car or a public cafe?
This is highly discouraged. Background noise from traffic, coffee machines, or other people is very distracting and looks unprofessional. It signals poor preparation.
Invest in a quiet space. If you must use a cafe, find a very quiet corner, but a private room at home or a paid quiet booth is a much better investment.
What if I don’t understand the interviewer’s question?
Never guess or give an irrelevant answer. It is perfectly professional to say, “Pole, could you please repeat the question?” or “That’s a good question, let me think for a second.”
Asking for clarification shows you are engaged and want to give an accurate response. It is far better than rambling off-topic.
