What recruiters look for in a phone screen
Phone screens are often perceived as an informal conversation, but they are actually a crucial step in the interview process. Recruiters use this time as an opportunity to determine if you are worth moving to the next stage. Believe it or not, you may have a stellar resume and meet every qualification for a role, but if you flub the phone screen, you probably won’t make it past this stage.
So, what can you do to ensure success?
1. Be prepared and professional
Recruiters notice how much you have prepared and how you present yourself.
- The location you take the call matters This is your first impression so take it seriously! No calls while driving, running errands or at a noisy coffee shop. Be fully present and stationary so you can take notes and focus.
- Research the company as well as the role Find ways on the screen to show that you’ve done your homework. For example – “I was impressed by your recent expansion” or “I read that you are pivoting toward X; how is that affecting the structure of this team?”
- Prepare for standard interview questions Come prepared to speak about why you are looking to leave your current position, what you want in your next role and what specifically interests you about the position you have applied for.
- Ask thoughtful questions about the company and the position itself Show that you are invested in the role and the future of the company. Ask questions like, “Where do you see the company in five years? 10?” or “What does the person in this role need to be successful?”
2. Team compatibility
Soft skills are an important part of the phone screen. Recruiters are looking to see if you align with the team’s values and collaboration style.
- Identify core values Get a sense of the company’s values, and if you align with them, be sure to highlight examples throughout your conversation.
- The energy level you bring to the call is huge Are you presenting yourself as enthusiastic and engaged, or do you sound disinterested? The amount of interest and excitement you show can set you apart from other candidates.
- Clear and confident communication is essential Are you able to answer questions concisely? Be very aware of rambling and over explaining here. Keep in mind the STAR method to guide you through questions.
3. Logistics
We call this the “check the box” list. Recruiters will be touching on the role’s non-negotiables to determine if you are a fit.
- Salary Come prepared to discuss the target salary for your next role. Be honest about your requirements from the beginning. If you are unsure, do the market research beforehand so you have a range in mind. Look through LinkedIn for similar jobs with posted salary ranges, or check out other great resources like Glassdoor and the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
- Office preferences Are you looking for remote, hybrid or in-office work? Again, be honest! Employee preferences can often be dealbreakers, so be upfront to avoid wasting your time as well as the company’s.
- Start date availability Can you start immediately? Or will you be giving the standard two-week notice?
4. Follow-up
Show your enthusiasm for the opportunity and keep the lines of communication open.
- Send a thank-you email Always follow up with a quick note to the recruiter! Something simple like, “Thank you for taking the time to speak with me about X position. I really enjoyed learning more about the role and the company. Looking forward to next steps!”
Final Thoughts
The phone screen is generally a quick 30 – 40 minute conversation, but its importance is clear. This is your opportunity to sell yourself and set the tone for everything that follows. A strong phone screen, backed by preparation and confidence, is the first step toward a successful hire.
Interested in learning more tips and tricks? We offer a comprehensive package for job seekers that includes a full resume review, a tailored job search strategy and a review of your LinkedIn profile. Visit us here or send a note to hello@goldstonepartners.com for more information today!
