Every day, I speak with candidates and hiring managers, and I’m often surprised by how many applicants overlook the importance of preparing for the crucial first step: the telephone screening call.

Typically, less than 10% of applicants even make it this far, so you should certainly commend yourself. You have a resume that has attracted attention. But don’t make a mistake of unprepared for a phone conversation. This part of the process is about elimination not selection! This call isn’t just a formality; it’s a decisive moment where the goal is to filter out those who won’t progress to the next stage.

Interviews virtual or in person with a panel of people is time consuming for everyone. The phone screen is to determine the best applicants move forward. The person calling you needs to be confident that if you advance to the interview stage, you’ll reflect well on their decision to select a strong pool of candidates.

The Important Do’s and Don’t

1. Match

Demonstrate your match first and aim to stand out from other applicants second. First and foremost, make sure to showcase how well you match the core requirements of the role. Understand the specific job you’ve applied for and clearly align your experience and skills with its demands. The person conducting the call might not be familiar with every detail of the job, so it’s beneficial to use terminology from the job description or advertisement. Highlight any relevant qualifications, systems experience, or technical skills that were mentioned in the job listing. This approach will help you effectively demonstrate that you are well-suited for the position.

2. Be Succinct & Timely

In today’s fast-paced job market, time is often limited. When you get a call, be ready to articulate your responses clearly and succinctly. Aim for confidence without crossing into arrogance. Typically, the caller has set aside just 15-30 minutes to address key questions and decide if you should move to the next stage. Spending too much time on distant past experiences, like a job from a decade ago (I’m exaggerating here but starting with something that old isn’t usually relevant), might mean missing the chance to showcase how your current skills and experiences make you an ideal fit for the role.

3. Listen, Listen, Listen

The ability to retain information, read-between-the-lines and comprehend what the speaker is really thinking is a real skill you need to master in your job search. Pay attention to the other person very carefully. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted by whatever else may be going on around you, or by forming your response while the other person is still speaking. It is ok to pause, but make sure you answer the question asked. Too often I have had candidates too interested in sharing their own agenda missing the chance to “Match” in point 1 effectively.

4. Culture & Attitude

When job searching, it’s important to bring a sense of warmth and enthusiasm to your conversations, even if they’re conducted over the phone without the usual non-verbal cues. Recruiters are looking for signs of a positive attitude and genuine excitement about the opportunity. Pay close attention to any hints about what the company values in its employees, as different organizations prioritize different qualities. For instance, some may seek individuals who thrive in a fast-paced environment, while others might value innovation or a customer-focused approach. To better align with the company’s culture, make sure you research their website to understand their values and recent news. This preparation will help you demonstrate how you could be a great fit for their team.

In summary, the telephone screening call is a pivotal moment in the job application process. It’s your chance to prove that your resume reflects genuine potential, be ready!