Phone Screen Interview

So you've got the phone screen, now what??? A phone screen interview is the first step in the process to your new job. Take it seriously -- it's vital that you do well.



What is a phone screen interview?



A phone screen interview is the first step. You've applied for a position and you seem to have the basic skills / experience that the organization is looking for. You'll usually interview with someone from Human Resources or possibly an outside 3rd party recruiter. In a down economy, a job posting may get hundred's of applicants. Many are discarded because the applicant doesn't have the basic skills or job requirements. Phone Screen Interviews simply narrow the candidate pool to a more managable level.



When will they call me?



The initial call will come unexpectedly and without warning. The first impression starts with you answering the phone. FYI - Have a professional sounding voice mail message in case the call comes when you're unavailable to answer it.



The interviewer will ask when you're available to interview. Don't say right now -- because you're NOT READY! The interviewer expects you to schedule a date and time -- tomorrow is fine.



Is this a real interview?



Yes - absolutely. You must prepare yourself to make a great impression.

• Research the company ( website or in-person)


• Prepare some questions for the interviewer


• Review your resume


• Practice interview role-playing with a friend


• Prepare for the call about 30-45 minutes ahead of the scheduled time


• Have a copy of the resume available


• Have any questions for the interviewer available


• Get a drink of water to have with you - no soda or coffee -- caffeine will make you nervous


• Take a restroom break


• Find a quiet place / close the door / remove distractions


• When the call comes ---Focus on the interview -- nothing else!!!

Upon completion of the phone screen interview, always ask what the next step will be. If you get an in-person interview -- GOOD JOB!!! You've made the cut and move on to the next round.

Interview Questions

Top Interview Questions - With Answering Suggestions

Tell me about yourself?

ANS: This is NOT the time to reflect and reveal your entire life story. Focus on professional work-oriented items only. Discuss the things you've done and jobs you've held that relate to the position you're interviewing for. Sell yourself!!!

Why did you leave your last job?

ANS: Stay positive regardless of the actual reason. Never go negative about any past employer or boss. Frame your response in a positive light - " I've enjoyed my time at _____, but I'm looking for more challenges and growth opportunity".

What experience do you have in this field?

ANS: Discuss any past experience that relates to the position you're interviewing for. Example - Customer Service Manager -- " I have ____ years dealing directly with both internal and external customers. I find in rewarding providing solutions to customer issues."

Tell me about your greatest strength?

ANS: Another opportunity to sell yourself. Don't brag -- just clearly state some of your best qualities. For instance, you are able to solve problems, was the top sales person, work well under pressure, enjoy a challenge. Example - "I enjoy coaching and training - I believe in equipping my staff for success. As a result, I was able to reduce turnover in my department 15%. That reduction in turnover, enabled my team to better service our clients - resulting in fewer errors and a 20% increase in sales".

Tell me about your weaknesses?

ANS: Caution - Don't talk yourself out of a job!!! Any weakness should be placed in a positive light with action steps already implemented to correct. Examples - "I have a real bias against folks that don't seem to care about their job performance. Or - Sometimes I'm a perfectionist and spend to much time at work finishing those last critical steps."

Are you applying for other jobs?

ANS: Be honest - but move on quickly. Example - I am applying for positions with a select group of organizations that match my values and ethics.

What type of salary are you looking for?

ANS: Loaded question!!! If you get a specific amount and it's too high, you'll price youself out of the job or if it's too low, you work for less. Example - That's a tough question. Is there a salary range for this position? I interviewed for job once in which the interviewer actually laughed at me for asking this question. I'm not sure if she realized I was avoiding or just being gutsy. Regardless - she gave me a salary range to work with and we went from there.

CAUTION: NEVER BRING UP SALARY, BENEFITS, DAYS OFF OR VACATION TIME FIRST. YOU LOOK LIKE THAT'S ALL YOU CARE ABOUT --- NOT THE COMPANY OR THE POSITION.

Are you a team player?

ANS: Absolutely - Yes - Definately. Today's companies are looking for team players, not lone rangers.

Why should I hire you?

ANS: Another chance to sell yourself. Take advantage of the opportunity to recap accomplishments, work ethic, education, experience and drive.

What motivates you to do your best at work?

ANS: Another chance to talk about YOU. Good examples may be - Achievement, recognition, the challenge, finding solutions, making contributions to the team, etc.

Are you willing to relocate?

ANS: Be honest - if you are willing - YES. If not, say so up front. Example - "Yes, I'd be willing to relocate for the right opportunity."

What qualitites do you look for in a supervisor?

ANS: CAUTION - This is a loaded question! Be careful with how you answer since you may be interviewing with your next boss. Stick with safe stuff like - knowledgeable, hardworking, honest, provides timely feedback, supportive, loyal to his or her team members.

Do you have any questions for me?

ANS: Yes -- have some questions ready. This shows that you've actually done a little research on the organization and want the job. When I interview folks -- this question is critical for me. Example - "Can you explain the company culture? When will I be allow to contribute to the team? What's the next step in the process"?