A phone screen with a recruiter is often the first direct contact you have with a company after submitting your application. This initial conversation, lasting 20-30 minutes, is a foundational step in the hiring process. Its purpose is for the recruiter to verify your qualifications, confirm your interest in the position, and assess your potential fit for the company’s environment. Making a positive impression during this call is an important step toward advancing to an interview with the hiring manager.
Research the Company and Role
Thorough preparation begins with understanding the organization and the specific position you are pursuing. This research demonstrates genuine interest and helps you tailor your conversation. Start by exploring the company’s website, paying close attention to the “About Us,” “Mission,” and “Values” pages for insight into its culture and goals.
Next, search for recent company news or press releases. Knowing about a recent product launch or new funding shows you have an active interest in the organization’s activities. Concurrently, analyze the job description with care, going line-by-line to identify the core responsibilities and required qualifications.
Finally, look at the recruiter’s LinkedIn profile. Understanding their professional background and role within the company can help you build a connection during the call and establish a more comfortable dynamic.
Prepare Your Talking Points
Once your research is complete, prepare what you will say. Recruiters often begin with a request like, “Tell me about yourself,” which is your cue to deliver a concise elevator pitch. Prepare a 60-to-90-second summary that highlights your most relevant accomplishments and explains how your career path has prepared you for this opportunity.
Beyond your introduction, anticipate and practice answers to common questions. Recruiters will likely ask why you are interested in this role and what prompted you to leave your current job. Be ready to provide specific reasons that align with your research. Another frequent topic is salary expectations; research the typical salary range for the position in your area to provide a realistic figure.
Preparing your own questions is also important. Develop two or three insightful questions to ask the recruiter to demonstrate your engagement. You could ask about the specific challenges of the position, the team structure, or what qualities the company looks for in its employees.
Handle the Logistics
Creating the right environment is a practical step that can have a significant impact on your phone screen. Your primary goal is to minimize distractions and ensure the conversation is as clear as possible.
- Find a quiet, private space where you will not be interrupted by pets, family members, or background noise.
- Check that you have strong cell service or, if using a VoIP service, a stable internet connection.
- Use headphones or a headset with a microphone, as it can eliminate echo and help you and the recruiter hear each other clearly.
- Keep a physical or digital copy of your resume and the job description in front of you for quick reference.
- Have a pen and paper or a blank document open to take notes on important information the recruiter shares.
What to Do During the Call
When the phone rings, answer in a professional and friendly manner, stating your name clearly. Throughout the conversation, speak clearly and maintain an energetic and positive tone. Since the recruiter cannot see your body language, your voice must convey your enthusiasm and confidence.
Active listening is a large part of a successful phone screen. Pay close attention to the recruiter’s questions and comments without interrupting. If a question is unclear, it is perfectly acceptable to ask for clarification to ensure you provide a relevant response.
Keep your answers concise and to the point. While it is important to provide detail, avoid rambling or going off on tangents. At the end of the conversation, express your gratitude for the recruiter’s time and consideration.
Follow Up After the Call
Your engagement with the recruiter does not end when you hang up the phone. Before the call concludes, it is appropriate to ask about the next steps in the hiring process. Inquiring about the timeline provides you with a general idea of when you might hear back and demonstrates your continued interest.
After the call, send a brief and professional thank-you email. This should be done within a few hours. The email should be concise, thanking them for their time and reiterating your enthusiasm for the position. You can also briefly mention a specific point from your conversation to personalize the message.