What's a phone screen interview? How do I prepare for one?

You just got an email:

We’d love to schedule a quick phone interview.

You check the time. It's set for tomorrow. Your heart jumps — just a little.

Okay, deep breath. It’s just a short call. I’ve done harder things… right?

Exciting — but also kind of scary, right?

Welcome to your first phone screen interview!

A phone screen might seem more relaxed than an in-person meeting, but it’s still a big deal. This short call helps the company decide whether you’ll move on — or not.

A phone screen isn't meant to grill you. It's a quick check:

• Do you fit the basic requirements?

• Can you communicate clearly?

• Do you sound interested and prepared?

Think of it like a “vibe check” before the real interview.

Even for a short call, research the company:

• What do they do?

• What’s the role about?

• Any recent news or values you connect with?

This shows you’re serious and not just blindly applying.

You can use what you find to tailor your answers, especially when they ask why you’re interested in the role or the company.

You’ll likely get asked:

• “Tell me about yourself.”

• “Why are you interested in this role?”

• “Walk me through your resume.”

Don’t memorize a script, but prepare 2–3 sentences for each.

Tip: Use the “Present–Past–Future” method:

• Present: what you’re doing now

• Past: a quick background

• Future: why this job excites you

Example:

I’m currently a marketing intern at a nonprofit, where I manage our social media. Before that, I studied communication and worked part-time at my school’s writing center. I’m excited about this role because it blends creative strategy with mission-driven work.

A phone screen might be audio-only, but your setup matters:

• Find a quiet place.

• Use headphones.

• Have your resume and notes in front of you.

• Stand or sit up straight — it really helps your voice sound more energetic!

These small steps don’t just help you stay organized — they boost your confidence, too. 👏🏻

Recruiters almost always ask: “Do you have any questions for me?”

Don’t say no! Ask something simple but thoughtful, like:

• "What qualities help people succeed in this role?"

• "What is the company culture like?"

• "Will I be working in a team or individually?"

• "What is the working environment in the office like?"

Which question is the best to ask at the end of a phone screen?

A. “How many vacation days do you offer?”

B. “What does the rest of the interview process look like?”

C. “Can I work remotely on Fridays?”

D. “Would I be eligible for a promotion within the first 6 months?"

Now that you know how to prepare for a phone screen, here’s a quick checklist to help you feel more confident: