By Mary McDonald, Shared Talent Acquisition Specialist
A recruiter phone screen is a brief interview, typically 15-30 minutes, that recruiters use to assess whether a candidate is a potential match for an open position.
To prepare:
- Review the job description and match your experience to it
- Reread your resume and prepare talking points on your accomplishments
- Practice a 60-second summary of your experience (an elevator pitch)
- Research the company’s website and social media
- Set up in a quiet, private place with no interruptions
- Keep your resume, the job description, and notetaking materials nearby
If caught off guard and unable to focus, ask to reschedule
What Is a Recruiter Phone Screen?
A recruiter phone screen, or phone interview, is a brief interview conducted by recruiters to assess whether you’re a potential match for an open position. It is your first chance, aside from your resume, to impress the recruiting team and get them excited about you as a potential fit for the role. Some phone screens are scheduled ahead of time, while others will be unexpected.
What Happens During a Recruiter Phone Interview?
Whether scheduled or unscheduled, it’s important to take the phone call seriously as part of the hiring process. It may seem informal, but the recruiter on the other end of the line will be weighing in on whether to move you forward. Jeff Souza, Senior Talent Acquisition Representative with Esler Companies | Renewal by Andersen, puts it simply: “It may be a phone interview, but at the end of the day, it’s still an interview.”
During a phone interview, the recruiter will share:
- Description of the job and expectations
- Background on the company and its culture
- Logistics of the role—hours, location, potential starting date
Recruiters want to learn about you. Expect to be asked about:
- Your work experience and background
- Your interest in the position you’ve applied for
- How the position aligns with your career goals for yourself
Phone screens are typically 15-30 minutes long. The recruiter may tell you at the end whether you’ll move on to a second interview. Otherwise, you’ll hear back from the company after the recruiting team discusses your application.
How to Prepare for a Scheduled Phone Screen
This is your chance to make a great impression and help the recruiter see why you may be a strong fit for the role.
Read the Job Description
Review the original job description in detail. Pay attention to the necessary skills and experience. Be ready to share how your experience matches the needs of the role.
Analyze Your Resume
Reread your resume before the interview. It will help you prepare questions about your experience, skills, and accomplishments.
Practice Your Elevator Pitch
An elevator pitch is a sixty-second summary of your experience, skills, and strengths. Have a brief statement prepared for the question, “Can you tell me a little about yourself?”
Research the Company
Set yourself apart by learning about the company. Review the company website and their social media accounts. Recruiters take note when a candidate knows about the company and has questions. A little background knowledge will help you have a better conversation. Even a small mention about company news—such as a recent recognition or a teammate event—will stand out.
Match Your Skills and Experience to the Needs of the Role
Be sure to highlight the ways your experience, skills, and personal traits make you a good fit for the position. Rick Henriquez, Talent Acquisition Lead at Esler Companies | Renewal by Andersen, recommends thinking beyond the job itself and considering how it fits into your career plans: “Know what you applied for, research the company, and ask yourself, ‘How does this align with my future goals?'”
Prepare a Quiet Place
Make sure you’re set up in a private place where you will have no interruptions.
Turn Off Notification Sounds and Silence Your Phone
Alerts can be distracting and recruiters will see this as a lack of professionalism.
Prep Your Materials
Have your resume and a copy of the job description nearby. Keep a pen and paper—or a notetaking app—handy so you can jot down any essential information.
How to Prepare for an Unscheduled Phone Screen
If you’ve been sending out your resume and applying to multiple jobs, recruiters may call at any time. A little preparation can help you avoid asking, “What company is this?” or “What role did I apply for?” when a call comes unexpectedly.
Keep Notes on Your Job Search
Keep a running list of the positions and companies where you have applied. Highlight the ones you are most interested in, review the job descriptions, and spend five minutes reading up on each company.
Make a Good First Impression
The way you answer the phone is your chance to make a great first impression. Answer with a simple, “Hello,” or “This is [your name].” Avoid answering the phone with slang or a joke. The same applies to your voicemail message. Keep it short and sweet.
Reschedule the Call If You Need To
It’s possible that the recruiter will catch you at an inconvenient time. Our advice? Don’t take the call unless you can give your full attention to the conversation. If you’re working, doing chores, shopping, or driving, it’s better to reschedule or call back when you can focus on the conversation.
Mistakes to Avoid During a Recruiter Phone Screen
Being Too Relaxed or Informal
Most recruiters want to put you at ease so they can get to know you. Even if you feel you have established a good rapport with a recruiter, avoid becoming too casual. Alexis McGinn, Talent Acquisition Representative with Esler Companies | Renewal by Andersen, advises candidates to be personable without becoming too casual: “Don’t talk to recruiters like they’re your friends. Be confident and approachable but remain professional.”
Talking Too Much—Or Not Enough
Communication is an important part of almost any position. Someone with effective communication skills is also a great listener. Recruiters want to hear what you have to say, but they also have important information to share with you. Maintain a balance of talking and listening.
Having No Reason for Applying for the Role
You may have sent out a hundred job applications, but no recruiter wants to hear you are applying to every job available. Recruiters want to know that you are interested in their role with their company. Remember to emphasize how the role aligns with your career goals.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does a recruiter phone screen last?
Phone screens are typically 15-30 minutes long.
What does a recruiter ask in a phone screen?
Recruiters typically ask about your work experience and background, your interest in the position, and how the role aligns with your career goals.
Should I reschedule a recruiter call if I’m caught off guard?
Yes. Don’t take the call unless you can give your full attention to the conversation. If you’re working, doing chores, shopping, or driving, it’s better to reschedule or call back when you can focus.
What’s the biggest mistake candidates make in a phone screen?
Common mistakes include being too casual with the recruiter, talking too much or too little, and applying for a role without a clear reason tied to career goals.
A recruiter phone screening is your chance to show what you have to offer. Review the role, learn about the company, practice your elevator pitch, and be ready to explain why you’re excited about the position. With a little preparation, you’ll make a great impression and land that second interview!
