Be Prepared For The Pre-Screen Phone Interview

When you apply for a job, immediately start preparing for a phone interview. Many companies implement a three phase process for hiring. A recruiter, human resource generalist, or hiring manager will sift through all of the resumes and pick the ones he or she likes the most. Then, they call you for a phone interview. After all of the phone interviews are conducted, they will possibly make another cut, and schedule you for a final face-to-face interview. Many people are unprepared for the phone interview. They could be caught off guard and give answers that are not up to par under normal circumstances.

Preparing for a phone interview will give you a better chance at getting a face-to-face interview. Here are a few tips for preparing for the phone screening.

1. compile a list of questions to ask the interviewer about the company. They will most likely ask you the question, “so, do you have any questions for me?” Be prepared for this. Interviewers hate when you say, “nope!” It makes you look disinterested in the company.
2. Keep a resume handy. It’s a good reference point to answer questions about your strengths and experience.
3. Anticipate questions that might be asked during the phone interview. Generally, phone interviews serve the purpose of getting to know you a little better and gauging your personality.
4. Practice with someone. Practice makes perfect. Have someone call you on the phone and practice your phone interviewing skills.
5. Show energy and enthusiasm in your voice. You can’t show body language, so your voice’s tone needs to act as your body language.

Don’t take these interviews lightly. They can make or break whether or not you get a second interview face-to-face with the hiring manager.

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