Screening Interviews

Many times, the job interview process will start with a basic “screening” interview.  Generally, the employer asks everyone the same set of questions which are designed to determine:

  1. The applicant’s level of interest
  2. If the applicant’s interest is supported by preparation for the interview
  3. A basic assessment of skills associated with the job, especially soft skills

As with all interviews preparation for a screening interview is critical. Candidates should never assume that this is “just a few questions.” Lack of preparation will show up and likely result in the applicant not being invited for higher-level interviews.

Here are the basic things to prepare for:

    • Knowledge of the company and job requirements
    • Ability to provide specific examples to support skills the applicant wants to highlight.
    • Preparation for the following questions:
      • Tell me something about yourself.
      • What do you know about x company?
      • What do you know about the job requirements?
      • What are your strengths?
      • What are your weaknesses?
      • Provide examples for things such as communication skills, teamwork, customer service.
      • Be able to ask substantive questions about the job or company.

UNT’s Big Interview platform has an excellent set of practice questions under the Practice>General category.