Phone interviews are a critical step in today’s hiring process. They offer an efficient way to identify promising candidates early and help employers gauge interest and qualifications without committing to in-person interviews.
Asking the right phone interview questions saves time and ensures only the best candidates advance to the next round. But to ensure you make the most of such situations, what are the questions to ask during a phone interview?
In this article, we’ll discuss 5 common phone interview questions to ask before you hire. We’ll explain the rationale behind asking each one during your next candidate search.
What is a Phone Screen Interview?
A phone screening interview serves as the first checkpoint in the recruitment process. It provides employers an opportunity to verify essential information and get a sense of a candidate’s suitability for the role.
This step not only clarifies expectations but also prevents issues that could offend a potential candidate later in the process. Candidates can also use this opportunity to learn more about the company and the role.
Best practices include preparing a consistent list of questions to ask during a phone interview, which allows fair comparisons across candidates. Additionally, be sure to plan for following up promptly with all applicants to maintain a positive experience.
5 Questions to Ask During a Phone Interview
Now, let’s get into our top phone interview questions to ask before you hire your next role.
Question #1: Tell Me About Yourself
This remains one of the most common phone interview questions for a reason. It’s a natural way to break the ice and lets candidates share their professional background and personal interests.
It may be one of the more typical phone interview questions to ask. But their response provides insight into their personality, experience, and potential cultural fit with your organization.
Employers can use this question to assess how well the candidate’s strengths align with the role. It also offers a chance to spot enthusiasm or early warning signs, which makes it an essential phone interview question for any hiring process.
Question #2: Why Are You Interested in This Role?
Asking candidates why they’re drawn to the position is one of the most critical questions to ask during a phone interview. Their answer provides insight into their motivations and alignment with your company’s values.
If a candidate has done their research and offers thoughtful reasons, they likely have a genuine interest in the position. On the other hand, vague or uninformed answers can help you spot a bad candidate before the process advances too far.
As one of the top phone screening interview questions to ask, it also opens the door for employers to evaluate if the role aligns with the candidate’s long-term goals. Their answer helps ensure they will thrive within your organization.
Question #3: What Are Your Salary Expectations?
Discussing salary early in the process should be one of the initial phone interview questions you ask. While it may feel uncomfortable, this is one of the best phone screening interview questions to ask because it ensures a candidate’s salary requirements match your company’s budget.
If their expectations are beyond your range, it saves both parties from unnecessary interviews. By asking this, you will reduce the need for turning down job applicants later in the process.
Additionally, the answers to salary discussions provide insight into whether a candidate’s experience aligns with the role. For example, a candidate asking for a significantly higher range than the position offers may indicate they are either overqualified or not a good match.
Question #4: How Soon Can You Start?
This is one of the more practical common phone interview questions to ask. It’s essential to know if the candidate needs to give notice, relocate, or coordinate schedules. Some candidates might be able to start immediately, while others could need more flexibility.
Employers should use this question to determine if they can accommodate the candidate’s timeline or if adjustments will be required. Asking this during the phone screening interview prevents misunderstandings that could occur later in the hiring process.
Question #5: Do You Have Any Questions for Us?
Giving candidates the opportunity to ask questions offers insight into their level of preparation and engagement. When candidates come with questions to ask during a phone interview, it signals they are serious about the position.
On the other hand, a lack of questions can indicate disinterest or lack of preparation, which may be a red flag. This question also provides candidates with a chance to evaluate the role and company, ensuring it aligns with their career goals.
Find the Right Fit with Nesco Resource
Asking these common phone interview questions helps employers identify the most qualified candidates early in the hiring process. Good phone screening interview questions save time, reduce unnecessary interviews, and ensure the best candidates move forward.
At Nesco Resource, we specialize in connecting businesses with the right talent and helping job seekers find meaningful opportunities. Whether you’re hiring or searching for a new role, explore our services today to find the right fit for your business.