- Home
- Networks
- Topics
- Blogs
- Co-op Blogs
- Arts and Social Sciences Co-op Blog
- Beedie School of Business Co-op Blog
- Biomedical Physiology & Kinesiology Co-op Blog
- Communication Co-op Blog
- Computing Science Co-op Blog
- Contemporary Arts Co-op Blog
- Engineering Co-op Blog
- Environment Co-op Blog
- Health Sciences Co-op Blog
- Interactive Arts & Technology Co-op Blog
- MSE Co-op Blog
- Science Co-op Blog
- Sustainable Energy Engineering Co-op Blog
- Communique
- ENGAGE
- Peer Education
- Co-op Blogs
- Galleries
- Learn
- Indigenous
- EAL/ESL
- iBelong
Interview Types: The Screening Interview
Interview Types: The Screening Interview
By: Elizabeth Moffat
There’s no There’s no shortage of interview formats or styles that can throw even the most experienced interviewee off their game, but if you familiarize yourself with as many of these as possible, you’ll be less likely to show up unprepared. Which is why this series is here, so you can become familiar with the multitude of interview styles you could face.
Screening Interviews
Many large companies use their HR department to pre screen potential candidates. You might receive a phone call from an HR representative looking to have a short conversation with you to determine if you’d “fit” with the organization. While some people think that this step is not as important as a formal interview, don’t forget: Not only do you need to impress here to get through to the next round, but even if you don’t get one particular job, you want the HR rep to remember you (in a good way) when the next opening comes along.
The Good
- These interviews are fairly casual and you aren’t expected to be completely prepared – but it is a bonus.
- You can gain a glimpse into the company’s values and what it’s like working there.
- A good first impression can result in a solid contact within the organization.
The Bad
- These interviews are often conducted over the phone, which many people struggle with.
- If you’re caught off guard by an unexpected call you may not show off your best qualities.
- The HR rep will likely make up their mind within the first two minutes.
The Helpful
- Don’t get caught off guard – keep your resume and portfolio within easy reach so you can refer to them.
- Keep copies of recent job descriptions for positions you’ve applied for. Jot down notes about the company that you can reference on the call.
- If you’re in a distracting environment don’t hesitate to ask the caller to hold on for a minute while you find a quiet room.
- Be yourself, not who you think they’re looking for.
- Smile when you talk, it may feel silly, but it will change your inflection.
- As the conversation wraps up, ensure that you understand the next step of the hiring process.
Potential Questions
- What interests you about this job?
- What is it about our company that appeals to you?
- Can you describe your last job?
Prepare with more practice questions by visiting the Interview Question Database.
Continue reading our full series of interview type tips or visit the All About Interviews section of the OLC.
Posted on April 23, 2012
- Login to post comments
- 10112 reads
RELATED TOPICS
|
|
|
|
|
|
SEARCH THE OLC
Login
OUR TWEETS
Today's Top
![]() |
Top Tip Lists Lost in Technical Translation: How to Succeed in an Unfamiliar Environment [15] |
![]() |
Top Tip Lists 8 Interview Tips For Impressing a Hiring Manager [14] |
![]() |
Top Tip Lists Starting Your First Co-op at a Start-up Company [8] |
![]() |
Top Tip Lists 10 Tips for Working with Seniors [7] |
![]() |
Career Services Why Being a Tutor Can Help You Become a Better Student [6] |
Interviews 10 Tips on Answering Interview Questions Effectively [4] |
|
Indigenous Indigenous Bio: CST Beverly PITAWANAKWAT [3] |
|
Volunteering Alumni Spotlight: Chris Lo [3] |
|
Professional Development Employer Information Sessions: Top 10 Tips [3] |
|
Volunteering Thank you from Our Learning Community [2] |
[Blog] Life Experience Just Like Bunko: It's Not About You [1] |
|
[Story] Interviews Preparation = Successful Interview! [1] |
|
[Story] Interviews Acing Phone Interviews [1] |
|
[Story] Career Exploration We Are All Canucks: Dreams Come True [1] |
|
[Story] Interviews The Dirty Dozen Interview Questions (Part I) [1] |
7 seconds
From Forbes Magazine.
You have 7 seconds to make a first impression:
...
You're Welcome!
Just wanted to say a big "you're welcome!"
I think though, that we also owe you a big thank-you for all of your fantastic...
There but for the grace of
There but for the grace of God go I, reoccurs for me in periodically and I smile warmly and am grateful.
Thank you for your...
Uhoh, now you've sent us down
Uhoh, now you've sent us down a black hole of Youtube Conan clips......
Our failures define us
Conan's quote is incredibly profound..but not quite as profound as his "String Dance."