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.
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