Phone Screen Script Template

Say this: Hi [CANDIDATE FIRST NAME], thanks for making time today. I am [YOUR NAME], [YOUR TITLE] at [COMPANY NAME].

Say this: This call should take about [DURATION] - I will share a bit about the role, ask a few questions, and leave time for yours at the end. Does that work for you?

Pause. Listen for a clear yes before moving on.

Time check: note the actual start time so you can track the segments below.

Say this: Let me give you a quick picture of the role. We are hiring a [JOB TITLE] to [ONE-LINE MISSION OF THE ROLE]. You would report to [MANAGER NAME / TITLE] and work closely with [TEAM / FUNCTION].

Say this: The role involves [TOP TWO OR THREE RESPONSIBILITIES]. The team is currently [TEAM SIZE / STAGE], and what is changing right now is [CONTEXT].

Pause. Listen for a reaction - genuine interest, questions, or silence are all useful signals.

Time check: keep this segment brief. Save detail for later rounds and move to the candidate's story.

Say this: I would like to hear about your background - walk me through your current role and what led you to apply for this one.

Listen for: relevant experience, reasons for leaving or moving, and how they describe their own contribution versus their team's.

Say this: Tell me about a time you [SITUATION RELEVANT TO THE ROLE]. What did you do, and what happened?

Red flag: vague answers with no specifics, or a story that does not match what is on their resume - note it and park it for the hiring manager to probe.

Time check: this is the longest segment. If you are running long, move to logistics rather than cutting it short.

Say this: A few practical questions before we move on. What is your notice period, or when could you start?

Say this: What are you looking for in terms of compensation for this role?

Say this: Is this role's location and work model - [ONSITE / HYBRID / REMOTE, CITY] - workable for you?

Listen for: a notice period or salary expectation well outside your range - flag it now rather than after later rounds.

Time check: keep this segment tight so there is still room for their questions and a proper close.

Say this: What questions do you have for me about the role, the team, or the company?

Pause. Let them ask more than one question before you answer - it usually signals genuine interest.

Wrap up: Thanks again for your time. Here is what happens next - [NEXT STEP AND EXPECTED TIMEFRAME].

Say this: Is there anything else you want me to know before we finish?

Time check: close on or before your stated duration, even if you have more questions of your own - save them for the next round.