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Phone screenings are a crucial first step in the hiring process but most people neglect this aspect. Phone screenings are a quick way to assess whether a candidate fits the role before investing time in a full interview. Here are a few tips to help guide you to your interview.
1. Research the Company and Role
Before the call, take some time to research the company and the specific role you’re applying for. Familiarize yourself with their mission, values, and recent news. Understanding the company will allow you to tailor your responses to show that you’re genuinely interested and that your goals align with theirs.
2. Prepare Your Environment
I know this point may seem useless, but make sure you are you’re in a quiet, comfortable space where you won’t be interrupted. You don’t want to be somewhere chaotic where there are distractions that take you away from the conversation. Test your phone connection ahead of time, and have your resume, the job description, and any notes you’ve prepared in front of you. This will help you stay focused and answer questions confidently.
3. Discuss Your Resume
The interviewer will likely ask you to walk through your resume. I would focus on discussing the top 3 to 5 skills that appear in the job description. Hone in on those skills and be ready to have highlights or examples you can discuss when talking about your previous experience. You might want to practice summarizing your experience so that you can shine in the interview.
4. Highlight Your Fit for the Role
You didn’t apply to this job out of the blue. Be prepared to explain why you’re interested in the position and how your skills and experience make you a strong candidate. You might be asked questions like:
What attracted you to this role?
How do your previous experiences prepare you for this job?
What skills do you bring that will help you succeed in this position?
Tailor your responses to show that you understand the role and are excited about the opportunity.
5. Be Honest About Salary Expectations
This is one of the hardest steps to conquer because people are scared that they might run the recruiter off. Don’t worry about that. You know what you bring to the table and If the interviewer brings up salary expectations, be prepared with a range that reflects your market value and aligns with your needs. It’s important to be honest, but also flexible. You don’t just need to discuss your range. You can ask about PTO. You can ask about health benefits or a 401k match!
6. Ask Thoughtful Questions
A phone screening is also your opportunity to learn more about the company and its role. Prepare a few thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer. This not only shows that you’re engaged and serious about the opportunity but also helps you determine if the company is a good fit for you. Some questions you might consider:
What does a typical day look like in this role?
Can you tell me more about the team I would be working with?
What are the next steps in the hiring process?
8. End on a Positive Note
As the call wraps up, thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the position. Ask about the next steps in the process and when you can expect to hear back. You can give yourself a timeline on how to proceed!
9. Follow Up
After the call, send a brief thank-you note to the interviewer, expressing your appreciation for the opportunity to speak with them. You can ask for their email or LinkedIn at the end of the call. This small gesture reinforces your interest in the role and keeps you top of your mind as they make their decisions.
A phone screening is your chance to make a strong first impression and set the stage for a successful interview process. By being prepared, communicating clearly, and showing enthusiasm for the role, you can confidently navigate the phone screening and increase your chances of moving on to the next stage. Remember, the goal is to demonstrate that you’re not just qualified, but that you’re also the right fit for the team and company.
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