6 Tips for Conducting Phone Screens

As a leading Houston staffing agency, Murray Resources knows that today phone screens are the norm in the interview process – and for good reason. How many times in the past have you invited a candidate in for an interview and realized two minutes in that they’re not the right fit? It’s a waste of time for both you and the candidate. On the other hand, a phone screen can help you avoid this scenario and filter out weak candidates.

With that said, how can you best conduct a phone screen so you can focus on top talent? Here are 6 tips to help you:

Tip #1: Create a short list.

You received 100 resumes. But you don’t want to conduct that many phone screens. Instead, narrow your list to your top 10 candidates.

Tip #2: Prepare your questions.

Don’t wing a phone interview. You need to prepare in advance. Keep in mind, you shouldn’t be asking dozens of questions at this point. However, you should have a list of five or six questions you ask each candidate. These questions should cover topics essential to the job and that will help you make a decision about whether or not to move a candidate forward in the process.

Tip #3: Follow a consistent format.

Every phone screen you conduct should follow a similar format. Begin with a quick introduction about the company and the job. Then move onto your questions. Take notes while the candidate is answering questions so you can remember key details and better compare all candidates once your phone screens are complete. Also, be sure to answer any questions the candidate may have about the position and what it entails.

Tip #4: Promote the opportunity.

If the candidate seems like they could be a good fit, sell the opportunity. Explain why they’d want to work for the company and give a quick overview of the key benefits and perks they can enjoy. Remember, top talent has their pick of positions – and won’t stay on the market for long.

Tip #5: Talk about next steps.

At the end of the conversation, talk to the candidates about the next steps in the hiring process. How and when will they hear from you next? If you don’t think they’re the right fit for the job, then let them know, while also being polite and thanking them for their time.

Tip #6: Rate your candidates.

Once all your phone screens are complete, rate your candidates to decide who to ask to come in for an interview. You should end up with several possibilities – not just one.

Do you need more help with phone screens – or any other part of the hiring process? Call the team at Murray Resources. As a leading Houston staffing agency, organizations all over the city rely on our expertise to source, hire and retain top talent for permanent, temporary, part-time and contract opportunities.

Ready to get started? Contact us today.