Phone Interview Tips: how to effectively prepare for a recruiter's initial call

Getting Through the Phone Interview

Recruiters are often inundated with job applications, and they can't interview everyone. To whittle down the field, they will often screen candidates over the phone. These short phone conversations are important, because they help recruiters decide who they should invite for a formal face-to-face interview. 

What happens during a phone interview

Recruiters typically conduct phone interviews to determine candidate suitability. Phone interviews are short and generally last no longer than 5-10 minutes. During the call, recruiters are looking for:

•            Engaged candidates who care about the position they've applied for 

•            A knowledgeable and resourceful approach to the position and the wider market 

•            A polite and personable manner 

Remember, recruiters are trying to narrow the candidate field--making a great first impression is critical. 

Be ready

Take the call in a quiet space where you won't be interrupted. Turn off distractions and keep a pen and paper handy for jotting down notes. 

If a specific call time is organised, be on time.

Prepare a short bio

Be prepared to summarise your career to date and the experience and skills that you can bring to the job. 

Prepare your own questions

Questions show that you care about the position. Questions to ask may include: 

•            What is the next step in the process?

•            Can you tell me more about the company the position is with, and what's expected of me?

Don't ask questions about salary or vacation time.  

Know how to answer a recruiter's typical questions 

Recruiters all ask different questions, but you can expect questions like:

•            What are you looking for in your next job role?

•            What are your salary expectations? 

•            Where else are you currently interviewing?

•            Why are you leaving your current job? 

•            When can you start?

•            Are you able to travel or relocate if required?

Make your responses count

Your responses to interviewer questions should be articulated well, and they must answer the questions directly. For example, if you're a junior seeking an entry-level sales role, explain what you can bring to the table and why you're looking for this particular job. 

If the interviewer asks why you're leaving your current job or previous roles, touch on things like: 

•            Craving new challenges 

•            Hoping for more responsibility 

•            Career advancement

Conclusion

The phone screening interview is a chance for you to tell recruiters who you are, why you want the job, and what makes you stand out from the other candidates. Take your time answering the recruiter's questions, listen to their instructions, and leave them with a positive impression. 

It never hurts to follow up from a great phone interview with a brief and professional thank-you note, either.