PREPARING FOR PRESCREENING PHONE CALLS
1.1 What are pre-screening phone calls?
After submitting the resumes, candidates often start receiving interview calls. However, many
fail to recognize the significance of these pre-screening phone calls. How you handle these initial
conversations can directly impact whether you're shortlisted for a formal interview or not.
Pre-screening phone calls serve as the first stage of the interview process. Typically conducted
by recruiters or hiring managers, these calls aim to evaluate a candidate's basic qualifications and
suitability for the role before proceeding further. They usually last between 10 to 30 minutes and
focus on critical aspects such as:
These calls are essential for employers to filter who candidates align with the job requirements,
streamlining, the hiring process.
Candidates who handle these calls professionally and communicate effectively are often
informed about the next steps in the process, such as scheduling formal interviews. Treat these
calls as a vital opportunity to make a positive first impression and position yourself ae a strong
contender for the role.
Resume Review Skills and Expectations Logistical Details
Confirming your Discussing your Core Clarifying your availability,
qualifications and work competencies, career goals, notice period, and salary
experience. and job expectations. expectations.
1.3 How to prepare for pre-screening phone calls?
Preparation is key to making a strong first impression during a pre-screening phone call. Follow
these steps.
1. Review the Job Description: Understand the role, required qualifications, and key
responsibilities. This helps you align your answers with what the employer is looking for.
2. Update your resume : Ensure your resume is accurate and highlights is most relevant
experiences and achievement. Be ready to discuss any gaps or transitions in your career.
3. Research the Company: Familiarize yourself with the company's mission, values, and
recent developments to demonstrate genuine interest.
Prepare Common Answers: Practice answering 'frequently asked pre-screening questions', such
as
Tell me about yourself
What are the recent projects that you have worked on?
Why are you interested in this position?
Why are you leaving your previous job?
Are you willing to relocate?
What is your current salary and notice period?
1.4 Do's and don'ts during a pre-screening phone call
Do’s Don’ts
Answer Promptly: Pick up the call on time Don't Sound Distracted: Avoid multitasking
and greet the recruiter politely. during the call or speaking in a noisy
environment.
Speak Clearly: Use a confident tone and Don't Provide Excessive Details: Keep your
articulate your thoughts concisely. responses focused and relevant.
Be Honest: Provide accurate information Don't Mention Salary First: Let the recruiter
about your qualifications, skills, and bring up the topic unless explicitly asked.
availability.
Ask Questions: Inquire about the role, team Don't Oversell Yourself: Be genuine and don't
structure, or next steps in the hiring process if exaggerate your qualifications or experience.
given the opportunity.
SAMPLE RESPONSE: I'm excited about this role because it aligns perfectly with my skills in
[mention relevant skills] and offers an opportunity to contribute to [company's goals or projects].
Q. Why are you leaving your previous job?
Hints to answer :
Focus on positive reasons like career growth, seeking new challenges, or aligning with
long-term goals.
Avoid negative comments about your current employer.
Emphasize how this role provides a better opportunity to achieve your aspirations.
SAMPLE RESPONSE: I'm looking for new challenges and career growth opportunities that this
role can provide, which align better with my long-term professional goals.
Q. Are you willing to relocate?
Hints to answer:
Answer honestly based on your situation.
If yes, express enthusiasm about exploring new opportunities.
If no, briefly explain constraints but express openness to remote options if available.
Longer Notice Period:
SAMPLE RESPONSE: My current notice period is [insert number of weeks/months], but I am
open to negotiating an earlier start date if necessary.
Set Up Your Environment: Choose a quiet location with no distractions, and ensure a good phone
connection.
Keep Notes Handy: Keep your resume, the job description, and a list of key achievements or
important points you want to mention close by for quick reference. However, avoid relying on
your notes too much--it should never appear as if you're reading from them.
PRO TIP: Start preparing for interviews the moment you begin circulating your resume: Don't
wait for the interview to be scheduled to start your prep. Confidently answering pre-screening
calls is a critical step in moving closer to securing your dream job!
Q. What is your current salary and notice period?
Hints to answer:
Provide an honest and concise response.
Mention your current salary and add, "I'm open to discussing a competitive compensation
package based on the role and responsibilities."
State your notice period, emphasizing your readiness to join as soon as possible.
Current CTC (Sample Answer)
My current CTC is [insert amount], and I'm looking for a competitive package that reflects the
responsibilities of this role.
Notice Period (Different Situations)
Standard Situation
SAMPLE RESPONSE: My notice period is [insert of weeks/months], and I can join as soon as
this period is completed.
Immediate Availability
SAMPLE RESPONSE: I can join immediately as I'm in a position to transition quickly.
Q. Tell me about yourself
Hints to answer:
Start with your current role, mentioning your job title and key responsibilities.
Highlight a significant achievement or skill relevant to the position.
Conclude with a brief mention of your aligning with future goal the role you're applying
for.
Q. What are the recent projects that you have worked on?
Hints to answer :
Briefly describe the project's objective and your role in it.
Highlight the skills and tools you used.
Share the impact or outcome of the project, on measurable focusing results.
Q. Why are you interested in this position?
Hints to the answer :
Discuss how the role aligns with your career goals.
Mention what excites you about the company or its values.
Highlight how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for the role.