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By making a short phone call, it can quickly be determined if the candidate matches the job description and has the necessary qualifications and experience. This means that the recruitment agency or employer can filter out the least qualified candidates and only invite the most suitable ones for a face-to-face meeting.
Your benefits from a phone screening
For the candidate, a phone screening can also be beneficial as it is less stressful than a personal interview. It also provides an opportunity to showcase your personality and communication skills before meeting in person. Additionally, it can be an opportunity to get additional information about the job and company, which can be helpful in the decision-making process.
How to prepare for a phone screening
When knowing that you will participate in a phone screening, it is important to prepare well.
Here are some tips on how to do it:
- Read the job description thoroughly: Go through the job description carefully to understand the requirements the employer has for the position. Be prepared for questions about your experience and skills that match these requirements.
- Knowledge about the company: It is important to have some knowledge about the company you are applying to. Spend time researching the company’s website, values, mission, and any current projects. This will help you choose the right questions to ask and show your interest.
- Practice typical interview questions: Even though it is only a short phone call, you can be asked various interview questions. Prepare for questions like “Why do you want this job?” and “What are your salary expectations?”. Think about your answers in advance and try to be as specific as possible.
- Make a list of questions for the employer: You should also have some questions you want to ask the employer. It can be about the company’s culture, job duties, or opportunities for growth and development. Make sure to have this list prepared and ready during the call.
During the phone screening
During the actual phone call – which can also take place as a Teams or Zoom meeting – you should pay attention to the following:
Listen attentively: Pay attention to the questions the employer asks and make sure to answer them precisely and concisely. Let the employer guide the conversation and avoid talking too much about irrelevant topics.
Be clear in your answers: Since it is not a personal conversation, clear answers and clear communication are important.
It can be a good idea to take notes after the conversation about what you have said and been told, so that you can remember this if you are called for an interview.
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