Do Some Research Before the Phone Screen—Here’s How to Ace It

Your resume got you the call, but the phone screen is your first real test. Think of it as the gateway to the next stage in your career. With a little preparation, you can stand out and leave a lasting impression. Here’s how to ace your phone screen and move closer to landing the job.

1. Research the Company

Take time to understand the company’s mission, values, and recent achievements. This shows genuine interest and helps you tailor your responses to align with their goals.

Pro Tip: Check the company’s website, LinkedIn page, and recent news articles. Note anything unique about their culture or recent projects.

2. Know the Role

Go beyond the job title. Study the job description and connect it to your experience. Be ready to explain how your skills align with the role’s requirements.

Pro Tip: Prepare examples of how you’ve handled similar responsibilities or challenges in the past.

3. Research Your Interviewer

If you know who you’ll be speaking with, check their LinkedIn profile to understand their background. Mentioning shared connections or their recent accomplishments can make the conversation more engaging.

Pro Tip: Use this information to prepare thoughtful questions about their team or the role.

4. Prepare for Common Questions

Expect questions like:

“Tell me about yourself.”

“Why are you interested in this role?”

“What do you know about our company?”

Pro Tip: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers and keep them concise.

5. Prepare Your Own Questions

This isn’t just an opportunity for them to learn about you—it’s also your chance to learn about the company.

Pro Tip: Ask thoughtful questions like:

“What does success look like in this role?”

“How would you describe the company culture?”

6. Create the Right Environment

Ensure your surroundings are quiet and distraction-free. Have a notebook, pen, and a copy of your resume handy.

Pro Tip: Test your phone connection and headset ahead of time to avoid tech glitches.

7. End on a Strong Note

Thank the interviewer for their time, reiterate your interest in the role, and ask about the next steps in the hiring process.

Pro Tip: Send a follow-up thank-you email highlighting key points from your conversation.

The phone screen is your chance to make a stellar first impression. With solid research and thoughtful preparation, you’ll stand out from the competition and confidently move closer to your next career opportunity.