The telephone has always played an important role in the job search but since cell phones have changed the rules somewhat, let’s revisit how to best use your phone in the job search.

Q: Should I put my cell phone number on the resume?
In today’s world, you need your cell phone on the resume. Most business calls are returned during daytime hours. You need a number that a hiring manager can easily access during the day. If your cell phone is a company cell phone, then you need to get a personal one and keep it with you, but silent at work. You can check messages at lunch and during breaks. Using the company cell is taboo unless your company is closing or majorly downsizing and they have told you to use corporate resources to help find a new position.

Q: What if you only use your cell in emergencies?
This should have gone away when bag phones in the car went away. A cell is a personal tool that can be the greatest resource a job seeker can have. Learn how to use your phone, keep it with you and return calls.

Q: What about voice mail on my cell?
Your voice mail should be professional. No cute sing alongs with your child, yes, I know it is so cute but NO! No rock music and “Hey this is Rocky, what’s happening?” Your message should say, “Hello, this is Tony Peterson, I look forward to talking to you soon. Please leave a message.”

If you are talented at remembering to change your message, you can provide a daily update. My message often says: “Hello, this is Julie Walraven from DesignResumes.com. Today is Tuesday, June 15 and I am with clients in the morning. If you are looking for help with resume writing or career marketing, please leave a message. Check out the Services Overview page for more info on Designresumes.com”

Q: Who should answer my cell?
Only you, that’s why you have voice mail. If you have family members who think every ringing phone should be answered, retrain them gently. You should only answer the phone when you are prepared to speak to a hiring manager. If you are indisposed, in a rush, with clients or your boss, let it go to voice mail. Find a quiet place and return calls.

Q: Should I put my home phone number on the resume?
The home phone number is much less necessary. You can have both but then you also should have a professional voice mail on the home number and no one should answer it for you. Cells have become the way most people communicate and it is business acceptable to have only the cell number on your resume.

Q: When is a good time to return a call?
Return calls when you know what you want to say. You need to review the message, develop a response, find a quiet place and then return the call.

Q: If I get voice mail on their end, how do I respond?
Leave a message. Again, a professional message perhaps saying a good time to have them call back. Respond to any questions in their voice mail and do it promptly.

Q: Should I use the phone to find leads?
Absolutely. You need to use your phone, your network, and all your resources. You can also use your phone to find out from the receptionist the name and spelling of the name of the hiring manager if you are responding to a blind offer. Then put informational interviewing in place with people who are connected to the company.

Q: Can I call after sending in my resume?
Yes, a brief call to verify that your resume was received is fine.

Q: What length of time should I wait between calls?
7 to 10 days but if the company gives you other instructions, like call on Tuesday, June 22, make every effort to make that call.

Q: How soon after the interview can I call to check?
Again 7 to 10 days. This is assuming you have sent thank you notes to all parties you interviewed with.