Recruiters, Please Stop Calling it a “Phone Screen!”

Remember the good old days, when we were told to ditch the term "Intake Meetings" referring to that stale conversation with a hiring manager to discuss what they wanted us to find for them?? Here is another idea for something a bit less buttoned-up toward our candidate conversation. Well, it's time for another verbiage upgrade in the world of recruiting.? When it comes to our chats with potential candidates, let’s forget the formalities of calling it a "Phone Screen” (PS) or "Phone Interview” (PI); let's change it up with terms like "conversation," "chat," or "dialogue."

Why the change? Using “phone screen” makes it sound as though we're about to launch into a formal police interrogation, not have a friendly chat. And really, who needs to state the obvious? Of course, we want to know if the candidate is the right fit for the job opening, but equally important—is this person going to be the spark in the company's talent fireworks? That's our job as recruiters, and we often get to be the matchmaker in this hiring process.

How about trying out "Phone Conversations"? It's a subtle change, yet it can create a significant impact by encouraging candidates to open-up and ease their nerves. By framing it as a "conversation," "chat," or "discussion," we're inviting a two-way exchange of ideas—a more intimate and less transactional experience. This approach not only encourages candidates to speak freely but also helps breakdown any walls, allowing them to be their authentic selves. Breaking down these barriers early on can pave the way for more fruitful discussions and set you apart in the recruiting landscape.

Imagine getting an email about a job application you submitted, asking, "When would be a good time to set up a Phone Interview?" Now, envision an email inviting you to a "conversation" about the role you’re interested in. Which email would generate more excitement and make you more likely to attend? The latter makes you seem less like a gatekeeper and more like the host of the hiring party.

In this digital society that prioritized convenience, this simple language tweaks can turn your hiring process into a much easier interaction. It's not just about evaluating fit for the role and company; it's about creating an environment where candidates can feel comfortable in the leading role in a workplace.

I've been using this approach for years, and it has resulting in deeper, more authentic, and relaxed conversations. When I get prospective hire on the phone or video for a ‘conversation,’ they tend to be much more relaxed and truer to themselves It's allowing me to get a sneak peek into their character, which is gold for assessing company or client fit.

Consider this: Would you want a driving instructor who says, "This is our last and final drive; I’m going to test you on what you’ve learned so far," or one who says, "Hey, let’s go for one last drive... just for kicks and giggles!" Candidates are already feeling the pressure, so why not add a pinch of civility to the mix?

Now, I get it if you want to continue calling it a "Phone Screen" because you want to see how a person performs under pressure. But remember, your hiring manager and the interview teams will be playing the skills evaluator role soon enough. Remember you are also a brand ambassador for your company.???

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To quote one of our greatest scholars of all time; John “Bluto” Blutarsky “Who’s with Me?”

By: Mark Weinberg

Principal Talent Advisor

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