I've actually had it go the other way around. Parent was warm/friendly/perky on the phone and in our e-mail exchanges...in person she was the total opposite. Not rude or anything but really reserved and barely smiled at all. In fact, I was sure that the interview was a bust...but she has signed on for September & we've had several warm/friendly/perky emails since. Perhaps it was just an off day for her; one never knows. I honestly wouldn't refuse someone based on a feeling about them over the phone; if something about the care they need (drop off/pick up beyond my hours of operation etc) doesn't seem a right fit on the phone then I would refuse for sure.