Here are a few straightforward phone interview questions to help you determine who should move on to round two:
1. Do you have the proper certification, license or degree for this position?
While you’ve probably listed educational or certification requirements in the job description, it’s a good idea to verify applicants can prove they have the necessary credentials to perform the job.
For example, if you’re hiring a delivery truck driver, you’d want to make sure they have the proper type of driver’s license. If you’re hiring a dental hygienist, you’d want to make sure candidates have a degree in dental hygiene.
2. Are you willing and able to travel?
If the role requires any travel, it’s important to set the expectation immediately. Some people are comfortable traveling as much as necessary while others may prefer a job in which they never have to leave town. Let candidates know the percentage of travel the role demands, as well as the sort of travel they can expect. For example, explain whether the job requires leaving the province, international flights or long-term trips.
3. What are you looking for in your next role?
This is one of the most common phone interview questions because it helps hiring managers to determine whether the position aligns with the candidate’s ideal job. By asking early in the process, you can identify which applicants will enjoy the role and which may not be well-suited.
4. What type of work environment is best for you?
Some professionals prefer to work in an autonomous setting while others prefer strict processes and oversight. Some candidates may want a position that offers remote work and flexible hours while others prefer a 9-to-5 style in-office job. Some applicants may be seeking a role that requires a lot of teamwork while others perform better independently. Whatever the case, this question helps you identify whether or not your company’s environment offers the candidate what they need to excel.
5. What are your salary expectations?
This question helps to determine two things:
- If the candidate’s compensation requirements align with the salary you’ve budgeted for the role.
- Whether or not the candidate is at the appropriate professional level for the job. For example, if the applicant is asking for an annual salary of $150,000, but you’ve only budgeted $80,000, then they may be too senior for the position.
6. Why are you leaving your current employer?
This is one of the best phone screening questions because it helps accomplish two goals. First, it enables you to determine whether the reason the applicant is leaving their current role is something they may also encounter in the position for which you’re hiring. For example, if the applicant says they’re leaving their current role because they’re not able to move up, but the position you’re hiring for doesn’t have much opportunity for upward mobility, it may not be the right job for them.
Second, it helps you get a feel for their personality and ability to keep their emotions in check. For example, if the candidate is respectful of their current employer and avoids personal attacks, it shows maturity and professionalism.
7. If offered a position, how soon would you be able to start?
Most of the time, candidates need to give their clients at least two-weeks notice before they can begin a new job. However, if someone is in a contract position, needs to relocate or has other conflicts, they may require additional time. You’ll have to decide whether you’re willing to be flexible on a start date for the right candidate, or if you need someone available immediately.
A phone screening is a critical part of the hiring process because it helps you identify which applicants stand out as the best fit for the company and the position. By using these phone interview questions, you can gather the information you need to decide which applicants you should move on to the next round, and begin scheduling face-to-face interviews.
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