Congratulations! You’ve submitted your resume and cover letter, and now you’ve landed an interview. But wait, is this the big interview, or is there something else happening first?
Many companies these days use a two-step interview process, with the first stage being a preliminary interview. This might also be called a screening interview or phone interview.
So, what exactly is a preliminary interview, and how should you approach it?
This guide will give you all the information you need to understand what a preliminary interview is, why it’s important, and how to ace it to move on to the next stage of the hiring process.
What is the Purpose of a Preliminary Interview?
A preliminary interview is essentially a first filter for employers. It’s a chance for them to get to know you a little better and see if your qualifications and experience are a good fit for the position.
Here are some of the key things employers are looking for in a preliminary interview:
- Basic qualifications: Do you have the required skills and experience listed in the job description?
- Availability: Are you available to work the hours required for the position?
- Salary expectations: Are your salary expectations in line with the budget for the role?
- Communication skills: Can you express yourself clearly and concisely?
- Enthusiasm for the role: Are you genuinely interested in the position and the company?
By conducting a preliminary interview, employers can quickly weed out candidates who aren’t a good fit and save time on the overall hiring process.
How is a Preliminary Interview Different from a Regular Interview?
There are a few key differences between a preliminary interview and a regular interview:
- Length: Preliminary interviews are typically shorter than regular interviews, often lasting only 15-30 minutes.
- Format: Preliminary interviews can be conducted over the phone, via video call, or even in person. Regular interviews are more likely to be conducted in person.
- Focus: Preliminary interviews focus on basic qualifications and fit for the role. Regular interviews will go into more detail about your skills and experience, as well as your fit for the company culture.
How to Prepare for a Preliminary Interview
Even though a preliminary interview is shorter and less formal than a regular interview, it’s still important to prepare. Here are some tips:
- Review the job description: Make sure you understand the requirements of the position and what the employer is looking for in a candidate.
- Prepare your answers to common preliminary interview questions: These might include questions about your experience, skills, availability, and salary expectations. You can find a list of common preliminary interview questions https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/interviewing/top-20-interview-questions.
- Practice your answers out loud: This will help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
- Research the company: Learn as much as you can about the company, its mission, and its values. This will help you demonstrate your interest in the role and the company.
- Dress professionally: Even though the interview might be over the phone, it’s still a good idea to dress professionally. This will help you feel more confident and put together.
- Find a quiet place to conduct the interview: Make sure you’re in a quiet place where you won’t be interrupted.
- Have a pen and paper handy: You may want to take notes during the interview.
Common Preliminary Interview Questions
Here are some of the most common preliminary interview questions you can expect to be asked:
- Tell me a little bit about yourself. (This is your chance to give a brief overview of your experience and qualifications.)
- Why are you interested in this position? (Be sure to highlight your interest in the specific role and company.)
- What are your salary expectations? (Do your research beforehand to know the typical salary range for the position.)
- When are you available to start? (Be honest about your availability.)
- Tell me about your experience with [relevant skill]. (Be prepared to discuss your skills and experience as they relate to the job description.)
- Do you have any questions for me? (Always have a few questions prepared to ask the interviewer about the role and the company.)
Types of Preliminary Interviews
There are a few different types of preliminary interviews that you might encounter:
- Phone interview: This is the most common type of preliminary interview.
- Video interview: This is becoming increasingly common, especially with the rise of remote work.
- In-person interview: This is less common for preliminary interviews, but it can still happen.
Acing Your Preliminary Interview: Top Tips and Strategies
Preparation is key to success in any interview, and a preliminary interview is no exception. Here are some additional tips and strategies to help you ace your preliminary interview and move on to the next stage of the hiring process:
- Be enthusiastic and positive: Even over the phone, your enthusiasm can come through. Show the interviewer that you’re excited about the opportunity.
- Be confident: Project confidence in your abilities and experience.
- Be clear and concise: Avoid rambling or using jargon. Speak clearly and get to the point.
- Be a good listener: Pay close attention to the interviewer’s questions and answer them directly.
- Follow up with a thank-you email: After the interview, send a thank-you email to the interviewer for their time. This is a great opportunity to reiterate your interest in the position.
Beyond the Basics: Making a Strong Impression
While the core focus of a preliminary interview might be on basic qualifications, there are still ways to make a strong impression and stand out from other candidates:
- Highlight your achievements: When answering questions about your experience, be sure to highlight your achievements and successes.
- Show your transferable skills: Even if you don’t have direct experience in the specific role, focus on transferable skills that you can bring to the position.
- Ask insightful questions: Prepare thoughtful questions to ask the interviewer about the role and the company. This demonstrates your curiosity and interest.
- Be professional throughout: Maintain a professional demeanour throughout the interview, even if it’s conducted over the phone.
Following Up After the Interview
Once your preliminary interview is over, it’s important to follow up with the interviewer. Here’s what you should do:
- Send a thank-you email: Thank the interviewer for their time and reiterate your interest in the position.
- Recap your key qualifications: Briefly mention your most relevant skills and experience.
- Express your availability: Let the interviewer know when you’re available for a follow-up interview.
- Proofread carefully: Before sending your thank-you email, proofread it carefully for any typos or grammatical errors.
The Wait Continues: What to Expect After the Interview
After your preliminary interview, the employer will likely be in touch with you within a few days to let you know if you’ve moved on to the next stage of the hiring process.
Here are a few things to keep in mind during this waiting period:
- Don’t pester the employer: It’s okay to send a follow-up email after a week if you haven’t heard back, but avoid pestering the employer with multiple calls or emails.
- Be patient: The hiring process can take time. Be patient and focus on your job search while you wait to hear back.
- Keep your options open: Don’t put all your eggs in one basket. Continue applying for other jobs while you wait to hear back from this employer.
Conclusion
The preliminary interview is an important step in the hiring process. By understanding what it is, how to prepare for it, and how to ace it, you can increase your chances of landing your dream job.
Remember, a preliminary interview is your chance to make a good first impression. Be prepared, be confident, and be yourself.
By following the tips and strategies outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to a successful preliminary interview and hopefully, the job you’ve been waiting for.
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