Many college students apply for jobs and internships each semester, and this usually warrants some phone interviews. Phone interviews can be hard to prepare for, because it's difficult trying to let your personality shine through without speaking to someone in person. However, there are some helpful steps to take before a phone interview that ensure you'll make a good impression.

1. Do research

It's important to conduct research on the company you will be interviewing for, just in case they decide to ask you one of those questions like, "why do you want to work here?" or "why did you apply to our company?". Make sure you have a clear understanding of what the company is all about and what its goals are. This way, you can clearly demonstrate how you will be a great addition to the company.

2. Conduct mock interviews

There's nothing wrong with asking a friend, or even a professor, to mock interview with you. If you want to be truly prepared, you can even have them do it over the phone to accurately simulate the interview. Have them research some interview questions and draft a sheet of questions to ask you, but make sure that they don't share those questions with you before. This can take the nerves out of interviewing over the phone, especially for the first time.

3. Create a list of questions

Make sure to create a list of questions to ask the interviewer, because this shows them that you are truly interested in the position. Some good questions to ask include what they expect from an employee, their most important achievements, etc. This tells the interviewer that you care about the company and what its has accomplished and aspires to be. In some cases, you may also want to ask about pay, benefits, location, etc.

4. Find a quiet environment

You definitely don't want to answer the phone call in a common room or living room if you have roommates, and you definitely don't want to in public. Find a quiet spot in your bedroom, such as your desk, where you can spread out your notes and keep everything organized. Make sure to inform any friends or roommates of your interview so they won't interrupt via walk-in or phone call.

5. Set an alarm

First of all, after scheduling the interview, you should mark your calendar. Then, make sure to set an alarm at least 15 minutes before the interview, so that you have time to organize your notes and get settled. Make sure you have no other obligations and are prepared to answer the phone as soon as the interviewer calls. Nothing is worse than missing the call.

Hopefully these tips will help you conquer those intimidating phone interviews. You only have a short amount of time and your words to make an impression, so make it count! Also, don't wear your pajamas--dress for success!