- Tell me about yourself/Tell me about your background. …
- Describe yourself. …
- Why are you applying for this position? …
- Why do you want this job? …
- Tell me what you know about the role. …
- Why do you want to work here? …
- Why are you looking for jobs?
Okay, seems like the hard part is over—you got the interview! But… It’s a phone interview. Is it different from a regular one? Are phone interview questions different?
This guide will walk you through what to expect, and a few helpful tips to close it off right.
Get ready to learn the answers to the most common phone interview questions, plus a bonus: some typical questions to ask during a phone interview (yes, you can and should do that!).
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I applied for a job on Indeed and they made me do a virtual interview and personality assessment
What are phone screening interview questions?
Phone screening interview questions are how hiring managers determine which candidates can move forward to in-person or more extensive interviews. They use these questions to get a better understanding of a candidates intentions for applying to their company. Your phone screening interview is your chance to show employers that you have a strong interest in their company and can add value to their team. This is your opportunity to show your personality and highlight your most impressive qualifications.
What are you passionate about?
Finding an ambitious candidate may be important to some employers, which is why they might ask this question. They want to know that youre excited about the work youre doing. In your answer, choose a specific aspect of your career you enjoy. Discussing a new skill youre developing or credential youre earning are good starting points.
Example: “I am passionate about learning new leadership methods. As a manager, I think its important to develop new ways to communicate with and support my team members. This past autumn, I attended a leadership workshop to further develop these skills. During this workshop, I learned how to be a more active listener and gained strategies to motivate my team members.”
Tell me what you know about the role.
Employers ask this question to ensure you did your research prior to your phone interview. They want to hear that you know what the general expectations of the role are. This question also helps them know what additional information they need to share with you about the role. Prior to your interview, carefully read through the job posting and do some research about the company.
Example: “I know this role requires me to work nights and weekends, which Im completely comfortable doing. I have a very flexible schedule. I also know that this role is perfect for someone with several years of management experience. As someone who has managed different offices, Im confident I have the leadership and communication skills youre looking for in a candidate.”
Why are you looking for jobs?
Employers might ask this question during your phone interview to see if there are any concerns about your employment situation. If you have a job but are looking for new opportunities, simply explain why. Make your answer focused on your career instead of personal reasons or small preferences like hours or commute time. For example, you might be looking for new jobs because there are few opportunities for growth or movement in your current role.
If there are any gaps in your resume, explain them briefly and address the ways youve been using your time to improve your skills and work styles.
Example: “Im looking for opportunities to start my career as a project coordinator. Working as an executive assistant has given me abundant experience in managing and organizing schedules, so Im ready to take the next step in my career. I feel especially qualified for this position because Ive worked in the retail industry in my last two administrative roles. Im more than ready to start my project coordination career and would be excited for it to be with your company.”
Why are you applying for this position?
Interviewers also sometimes phrase this as, “What about this job interests you?” It tells employers whether youre serious and have a genuine interest in pursuing the position. To answer this question, use details listed in the job description that made you want to apply. These can be duties, details about the company, or something about the role that aligns with your career goals.
Example: “Ive been working for several years on gaining skills in your industry. I feel I have the knowledge, skills, and qualifications youre looking for, along with a unique perspective coming from a different industry. Im passionate about working in the environmental protection space, and its time for me to make a change. Your company is the perfect place for me to do that.”
9 interview questions for preliminary phone screenings
Here are several phone screening interview questions a hiring manager might ask:
This is a first for me. Ive recently added Indeed to my job search sites (unfortunately) and received a request for a phone screen, but automated. I completed it on my computer although you could also use a phone if necessary. Each question was read out and it pretty much just recorded what you said.
Why did you decide for a career of a pilot?
Say them that you enjoy flying, and that you believe to be a responsible person. You can also say that you have all skills and strengths needed for this type of work. Alternatively you can refer to an experience that motivated you to pursue the career, such as meeting a pilot when you were young, or having passion for aircraft models since childhood.
The key is to convince them that you really want the job, and did not apply just because you’ve already spent a small fortune on your studies and training.
Non-Specific Telephone Interview Questions and Answers
The last section gave the most common phone screening interview questions to prepare for. However, there are many others that could be just as important, depending on your situation.
FAQ
What questions are asked in an automated phone interview?
- What Are Your Strengths? …
- What Is Your Greatest Weakness? …
- Why Should We Hire You? …
- Why Did You Leave Your Last Job? …
- Tell Me About Yourself. …
- Why Do You Want to Work Here? …
- Describe Your Current Job Responsibilities. …
- What is Your Management Style?
What is a phone screen interview indeed?
- Confirm the scheduled time. …
- Reschedule, if necessary. …
- Research the company. …
- Know who will be calling you. …
- Look over the job description. …
- Be an active listener. …
- Be professional. …
- Smile.
How do I prepare for an indeed phone interview?
Does the employer call you for a phone interview on indeed?
