* Learn all you can about problem-solving techniques. When you are given a problem to solve, tackle it enthusiastically and systematically.

* Establish a reputation as a good team player by developing good working relationships and cultivating friendships with as wide a range of people in company as possible.

* Participate fully in your company's training programme; and avail of all opportunities to extend your knowledge and develop work-related skills.

* Learn from your own mistakes and mistakes of others.

* Do more than is specified in your contract. Volunteer for assignments that will help raise your profile within company.

* Complete all work on time. Don't make promises unless you are sure you can deliver.

* Develop a reputation for honesty, loyalty and integrity.

* Since your job description will form basis of your performance appraisal, it is important to review it regularly.

Gerard McLoughlin, Director of Assignments Plus Communications, has contributed career-related articles to hundreds of recruitment companies, websites and publications throughout the world, including: USA Today, JobBankUSA.com, US-Recruiters.com, Jobs1.co.uk, Nurse-Recruiter.com, and Recruitireland.com

It is a good idea to stand during a telephone interview as this makes you sound more confident and helps project a positive and professional image.

Matching your speaking rate and pitch to that of interviewer will help you to establish rapport.

Professional radio broadcasters can vouch for fact that smiling creates a friendly and enthusiastic impression. So make an effort to smile appropriately during call.

Since it is important to convey impression that you are genuinely interested in company and eager to make a contribution, refer to salient information you discovered during course of your research.

Listen attentively to interviewer's questions and comments. Respond appropriately to verbal or tonal cues. If you don't understand a question, ask for clarification. Provide well-developed, balanced, and analytical answers. Avoid monosyllabic 'yes' and 'no' replies.

If asked to explain your reasons for leaving your previous job, make sure to have positive reasons prepared. Under no circumstances should you criticize your previous employers or colleagues. Having researched company and analyzed job description as suggested, you should find it easy to prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask interviewer when afforded opportunity.

At end of phone call, emphasize your interest in job and company and reiterate your qualifications. Stress that you would welcome opportunity of a face-to-face interview.

After interview, write a short thank-you letter.

Visit author's website at: http://www.assignmentsplus.com

Gerard McLoughlin, Director of Assignments Plus Communications, has contributed career-related articles to hundreds of recruitment companies, websites and publications throughout the world, including: USA Today, JobBankUSA.com, US-Recruiters.com, Jobs1.co.uk, Nurse-Recruiter.com, and Recruitireland.com