Look, no one loves writing cover letters. Just like no one LOVES eating kale (we see right through you, Gwyneth Paltrow). But both are a means to an end: If you want to live to the age of 95, try eating more kale; if you want to get ahead in your job search, include a cover letter. In a 2016 CareerBuilder survey, 40 percent of hiring managers said they’re more likely to pay attention to job applications that include cover letters.

Finding references seems simple enough: approach professors, previous bosses and supervisors from your internships, and you should be all set.

Well, not necessarily. For one thing, companies want to know about more than your academic and technical skills before they hire you. For another, that professor who gave you high marks may not really like you all that much.

Not all job interviews take place in person; especially during the early stages of the hiring process, a tech pro will likely have to speak to recruiters, HR staff, hiring managers, and even potential colleagues on the phone.

While phone interviews offer several advantages—you don’t need to dress up, for example, or commute to an office somewhere—they also pose a unique mix of challenges, especially for those who are relatively inexperienced in interviewing for jobs. With that in mind, here are some quick, top-level tips for preparing yourself: