Why is there a need for a phone interview during the hiring process? What is the purpose of it?

Phone interviews, a.k.a. “phone screens”

​Interviews over the phone are also called ‘phone screens’ by employers as they are screening candidates through contacting their mobile numbers to ask basic job interview questions.

​A phone interview with a recruitment company in Qatar usually takes less than 30 minutes. It is fairly short and requires less preparation.

While it is focused on confirming your match with the job opportunity, it also serves other purposes such as:

​• an invitation to come to the employer's location for an in-person interview

• a way to short-list candidates

• an option to interview candidates who are out of town or aren’t able to attend an in-person interview for whatever reason

• an initial stage before taking the in-person interview or face-to-face meeting of the interviewee with the interviewer

Every phone call counts

​Just because you’re not face-to-face with a prospective employer doesn’t mean you shouldn’t treat the phone interview seriously.

​You need to even try your best to make yourself stand out during that short call. However, if a phone interview makes you nervous, these tips can help turn an awkward conversation into a confidence-inspiring success:

TIP#1 - Keep your CV near the phone. 

Knowing that you could get a call from a recruitment company in Qatar at any moment, having your CV within your reach or saving it on your phone will give you information you need right at your fingertips.

TIP#2 - Record call logs.

Keep track of the CVs you send out by creating a log to record each company, position title, contact name, date of application, and qualifications for the job you applied for. This will help you get organized and be familiar with every recruiter you’re speaking with on call.

TIP#3 - Prepare your own “cheat sheet”

For unexpected phone interviews, a cheat sheet can help when answering questions on the spot.

Easy Reference

​If you have a chance to research the companies you’ve submitted CVs to, make a file with that information, and keep it near your phone as well.

​Get easy access to a notepad and pen during a phone interview. This is a helpful way to record the interviewer's name, key questions he or she asked, and your responses.

Ready Script

​Practice your answers ahead of time to sound much more intelligent and confident in the interview.

​Since the interviewer cannot see you, nothing can stop you from referring to a "cheat sheet" - notes to help you remember your practiced answers.

​Try answering these frequently asked questions or instructions during phone interviews:

1. Tell me what you know about the role.

2. Why did you leave your last job?

3. Describe your current job responsibilities.

4. How are your skills a match for this job?

5. What interests you to apply for this position?

6. What do you know about our company?

7. What are your salary expectations?

8. Why should we hire you?

9. When can you start?

10. Do you have any questions for us?

Many of these questions are difficult to answer on the spot. By practicing your responses ahead of time, you give yourself the opportunity to process your thoughts well.

Your notes will refresh your memory and prevent you from being speechless during the phone call.

OTHER HELPFUL TIPS

• Find a quiet place. 

• Answer the call with a smile. (It changes the quality of your voice and the interviewer will notice it in your tone)!

• Sip water periodically.

• Avoid eating, smoking or chewing gum.

• Take it as seriously as an in-person interview

• Focus and cut out all distractions

• Listen and don’t dominate the conversation

• Speak slowly and clearly.

• Give short answers.

• Suggest an in-person interview.

• Reiterate your interest in the position. 

• Send a thank you email.

BONUS: Direct them to your online portfolio or personal website

Why recruiters make phone interviews?

Many large-scale companies prefer to screen their candidates via phone, instead of spending the time and resources needed to bring them. A recruitment company in Qatar wants to see if an applicant gives them a reason to cross his/her name off the list.

In today’s increasingly busy digital world, many preliminary and final interviews are done through different mediums including on the phone.

Phone interviewing is an effective way for most hiring managers to narrow down the list of applicants before scheduling in-person interviews.

No “next interview” assurance

​There is no guarantee that you will get an offer of an in-person interview at the end of the phone call. But, don’t be discouraged. Who knows it can be your ticket to your dream job!

​It is considered that candidates who don't pass this screen are eliminated to proceed to the next stage.

On average, 6 out of 10 of those candidates who make it through the phone screen will be invited to the following round of interviews.

So, if you apply these phone interview tips, it could be your chance to move to the next level!