how to set an appointment for an interview?

Question

how to set an appointment for an interview? What are the steps to follow or the do;s and don'ts???

Answer 1

1. Call the firm and ask the operator "Can you tell me the name of the person responsible for ... and then connect me please?" (Don't get into why you want to speak to that person with the operator)
2. On being connected, even if you hear the person's name clearly, repeat it as a question. That way he or she gets accustomed to your voice by recognising something they are familiar with. If the name was too difficult or you didn't get it from the operator, say, "I was asking to speak to the person responsible for ... Is that yourself? (Yes) I'm sorry but they didn't give me your name."
3. "Hi, my name is ... and I am very interested in ... I think I can make a contribution to ... (here you need to tell the person why he or she will benefit from seeing you but avoid getting into detail. You just want the appointment, not do a full interview on the phone) and I'd like to call round for a few minutes. (Never give the impression you are going to take up too much time) Is the early part of the week or the later half better for you?"
4. Depending on the response, "Monday or Tuesday?" or "Thursday or Friday?"
5. Morning or afternoon?
6. OK, I'll see you at (time) on (day). But just in case there's a problem for you, can I give you my mobile number?"
Notice, you do not ask when he or she is free, you close down the options by offering alternatives (Monday or Tuesday, morning or afternoon?). Also give the person a contact number in case a real problem arises and he or she can rebook the appointment. The last thing you want is to turn up and not be seen so by giving your number, they have a moral right to see you if they don't call to rebook.
I hope this short course in sales communications will help you. The more calls you make, the easier it becomes. BUT DO MAKE A SHORT SCRIPT OF THE CONVERSATION BEFORE YOU CALL and practise a few times.

Answer 2

if they are busier than you, (ie hey are a prospective employer) phone and leave a message with your name, number and details, asking them to contact you at their convenience to arrange a date and time to meet. Get the persons name you spoke to, in caase they do not pass message on. Or email, if you can. But don't do both, you'll sound desperate!