A screening interview is a job interview that is conducted to determine if an applicant is qualified for a job. Usually, employers will hold screening interviews in the first round of the hiring process.
Read on to discover what to expect from a screening interview and how to prepare for one.
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What Is A Screening Interview?
A screening interview is a brief job interview that determines whether you are a qualified applicant.
For the majority of cases, a screening interview includes a review of your background followed by a few questions. These questions will be about your qualifications, but the interviewer might also want to know your salary requirements and availability to work.
Screening interviews can be conducted over the phone, via video chat, or in person. In any case, the results of the screening interview determines if the candidate moves to the next round of the interview process.
How A Screening Interview Works
Prospective employers will contact you to set up a time for your screening interview. When it comes to the date of the interview, you should expect very functional questions.
At this stage, the interviewer’s goal is to create a shortlist of candidates who will continue to the next step in the interview process
Here are some questions you should expect during a screening interview:
Tell Me About Yourself?
This is the icebreaker with the intention of making you feel more comfortable and it gives an insight into your personality. The answer you provide will help them determine if you are a good fit for the position and the company culture.
What Is Your Work History?
As well as helping the interviewer fact-check your resume, this question will allow you to show how your prio jobs have helped you to gain valuable skills and experience.
What Are Your Salary Expectations?
Prepare several ways to answer this question so that you can keep your options open without alienating the interviewer. For example, you may decide to give a range rather than a specific number.
Why Do You Want The Position?
Aim to be as specific as possible and demonstrate your passion for this job and employer- not just any open position in your field.
What Sort Of Skills Do You Have?
As an example, “Have you worked deploying newsletters?” or “ Do you have experience in customer service?” would be skill based questions.
Bonus tip: If you are doing your screening interview via video conference, test out your setup before the interview. You need to ensure your camera is at eye level and that the speakers and microphone are working properly.
Requirements For A Screening Interview
To give yourself the best chance of succeeding at your screening interview, take the time to prepare. Keep in mind that your interviewer is most likely speaking with many people for this position.
Remember, your goal is to make it through to the second round of interviews. In order to stay in the running, ensure you demonstrate that you’re a highly qualified, passionate candidate who will solve the company’s issues and further their goals.
Here are some tips to prepare yourself for a successful interview:
Review The Job Description
Ultimately, the job description is a cheat sheet for the company’s wants and needs in a candidate. Ensure you review the qualifications, as well as the main responsibilities involved in the role.
Research The Company
Although you don’t need to know all the ins and outs, researching the company can help you understand the company’s needs and culture better.
Prepare Your Interview Space
If your interview is on the phone or via Zoom, find a quiet place to talk to the interview and reduce distractions. You need to have your full focus on the interview, not on what’s happening around you.
Know Your Resume
Within your resume will be the answers to many of the questions that you’ll be asked. Be patient if it seems as though your interviewer hasn’t read it, there will often be many people being interviewed. Be fully prepared with brief descriptions of previous jobs and stories that prove your abilities.
Be Straightforward
It is important to remember that the interviewer is sorting candidates into two piles with screening interviews. You need to wind up in the pile of candidates moving on to the next round.
Make it easy by providing exactly the information the interviewer needs. Creating a personal connection is a bit less important at this stage of the hiring process.
Follow Up With An Email Thank-You Note
When you have any point of contact between you and a company, you should acknowledge your appreciation for the time. Use your thank-you note to remind the interviewer of your qualifications and your passion and your enthusiasm for the position. As this is a first round interview and the employer may be making decisions on second interviews quickly, send your email thank you note as soon as possible.
Final Thoughts
So there you have it, that is what a screening interview is all about!
Here are some key takeaways for you to recap the article:
- A screening interview is a job interview that is conducted to determine if an applicant is qualified for a job.
- Take the time to prepare for your screening interview by reviewing potential questions and researching the company.
- Remember to send a thank-you note via email soon after the interview.
