What is a phone screen interview and how to ace it?

If an employer reaches out to schedule a phone screen interview, it means they’re impressed with your resume and want to learn more about you. A phone screening is usually a short interview focused on a few basic questions. But don’t let its simplicity fool you. It is essential to do well in a phone screen interview if you want to move forward.

In this article, we’ll discuss what a phone screen interview is and how you can ace it with our preparation tips and sample phone screen interview questions.

What is a phone screen interview?

A phone screen interview is a short discussion between an applicant and a hiring manager over the phone. It usually takes place early in the hiring process. A recruiter uses this call to screen a shortlisted applicant and decide whether to invite them for a full interview. A successful phone screening gives you a better chance of moving on to the next round.

Phone screening vs. phone interview

While they sound similar, a phone screening and a phone interview are different parts of the hiring process. A phone screen interview is short, typically lasting between 15 and 30 minutes. During a phone screening, the hiring manager generally asks straightforward questions about your background and skills. This call also gives you an opportunity to ask questions about the job.

In comparison, a phone interview is generally a longer discussion that happens further along in the hiring process. The interviewer will typically ask more in-depth questions to gauge how you might perform in the role. For example, they may ask questions about how you would respond in hypothetical situations, or ask you to share detailed examples of your past successes and challenges.

How do you prepare for a pre-screen phone interview?

Do you have a phone screening coming up? Follow these phone screen interview tips to prepare:

1. Do your research

Before the interview, take time to learn about the company. How has it performed recently? What are its mission and values, and how do they align with your goals? What do former employees and customers say about the company on social media or review sites?

This research can help you anticipate what a recruiter might ask during a phone screening. You can also use this information to prepare some good questions to ask them about the job or company.

2. Review the job description

In a phone screening, it’s common for the interviewer to ask why you applied for the job. If it’s been a while since you submitted your application, make sure you review the job description before the interview. Familiarize yourself with the role’s duties, projects, and requirements.

As you review the job description, it’s also helpful to think about ways you can connect your skills, interests, and goals to the position. Showing a genuine enthusiasm and passion for the role can help you make it to the next stage of the interview process.

3. Prepare an interview space

Decide where you will take the phone call. If possible, go to a room where you can close the door and have some privacy. Minimize distractions so that you can concentrate fully.

Since a recruiter can’t see you over the phone, you can have some notes with you as you speak. Jot down some talking points and have a copy of your resume on hand. These resources can help you stay focused and calm during the conversation.

4. Listen carefully

During the interview, make sure you listen carefully. If it’s helpful, take notes as the interviewer speaks so that you can remember key details later. When it’s your turn to answer questions, you can also use these notes to frame your answers and align your qualifications with the role.

5. Ask questions

Just like any job interview, a phone screening is a two-way conversation. Ask relevant questions to learn more about the company and the job. You should also ask follow-up questions if you need clarification on any information.

Here are some good examples of phone screen interview questions that you can ask:

• How has your experience been working at this company?

• What do you like the most about the company?

• Can you tell me a bit about the company culture?

• Who would be my supervisor in this role?

• What are you looking for in an ideal candidate?

• What are the next steps in the hiring process?

6. Send a follow-up email

After the interview is over, send a polite follow-up email to the interviewer. Thank them for their time and reiterate your interest in the job. Let the interviewer know how they can reach out to you if they need more information. Sending a follow-up email is a quick professional courtesy that can leave a lasting impression.

Common phone screen interview questions

In a phone screening interview, you can expect to get some of these common questions:

Can you tell me about yourself?

For this question, briefly summarize your professional path. Discuss the relevant jobs you’ve held and the skills you’ve gained in them. Tie your experiences to the new role to show the hiring manager why you’re a good fit.

Example answer: “I’ve worked in marketing for the past five years. In my current position, I coordinate digital campaigns that have resulted in a 36 percent increase in website traffic over the past year. I also oversee the company’s social media strategy and manage two junior marketing coordinators directly. I’m excited about this opportunity because I feel ready to take the next step into a marketing leadership role.”

Need more advice? Check out this article: Why hire me? Examples to answer the question "Why should we hire you?"

What are your salary expectations for this position?

If salary comes up, offer your ideal compensation range rather than a specific number. For example, instead of saying you want to make $80,000 per year, quote a range of $75,000 to $90,000. Providing a range leaves some room for flexibility and negotiation.

Example answer: “Based on the job’s responsibilities and my qualifications, I believe a salary range of $60,000 to $70,000 is appropriate. That said, I’m willing to be flexible on salary for the right job.”

How soon can you start working for us, if hired?

Hiring managers understand that you probably need some time to transition into a new job. Be honest about when you can start working, especially if you need to give notice at your current job.

Example answer: “I would need to provide my current employer with two weeks’ notice. I’d be available to start shortly thereafter. Does that work with your timeline?”

Why did you apply for this position?

Share your reasons for applying and express your excitement for the role. Discuss how the job fits into your professional goals or interests. To give a standout answer, choose a specific detail to reference about the job or company.

Example answer: “I’m a longtime customer of Whole Market Grocers and admire the company’s commitment to providing sustainably sourced products. I’d be thrilled to bring my customer service skills and expertise to this position. Additionally, I’m interested in expanding my skills to handle the job’s sales duties.”

Do you have any questions for me?

Take this opportunity to learn more about the position. Ask insightful questions based on your conversation with the recruiter. Some good question topics include the company culture, team collaboration, reporting structure, and growth opportunities.

Example answer: “You mentioned that the company offers learning and development opportunities. Can you speak more about what growth may look like in this role?”

Do you have an upcoming phone screen interview? Use career.io’s Interview Prep services for the help you need to ace your interview!

Key takeaways

1. After receiving your application, a recruiter may want to do a phone screen interview to make sure that you’re a qualified candidate.

2. Phone screenings are usually short interviews that focus on basic questions about your skills and experience, and are a good opportunity for you to ask questions about the role and company.

3. While a phone screen interview may sound simple, it’s important to prepare ahead of time. A positive phone screening improves your chances of getting a full interview.