Phone interviews are often the first step in the hiring process, and they’re usually pretty high-level. As Muse career coach Tina Wascovich explains, the interviewer is basically “screening for risks—they want to confirm your qualifications and see if you’re a good fit.” They’re asking: Who are you? What do you know about us? Why do you want to work here?
You might get some job-specific or field-specific questions, but more often than not, you’ll face general phone screen questions. Here’s what those usually are—and how to answer them.
The more interviews you land, the more options you’ll have. (Check out open jobs on The Muse to find your next opportunity!)
Common Phone Interview Questions and Answers
Since phone screens are usually quick vetting processes, we’ve focused on general questions rather than super-specific ones.
1. “Tell me about yourself” or “Walk me through your resume”
These two questions (similar but not identical) are common openers. Muse career coach Angela Smith, a former recruiter, says they help connect the dots between you and the job.
Sometimes, your interviewer might be a recruiter or HR person with little background in your field—meaning they have no context for why your resume fits. Smith adds, “For people with diverse or seemingly random job histories, it can be hard for the person reading the resume to see those connections.”
How to answer:
Wascovich notes that what they really want is: “Tell me about yourself as it relates to this role.” So focus on the most relevant skills and experiences. A simple way to structure your answer is the “present-past-future” formula:
- Present: Where you are now and what you do.
- Past: Your background and experience.
- Future: What you’re looking for next (and how it ties to this job).
Example answer:
“I’ve been in marketing for over five years, mostly in account and project management roles. My last job was as a senior PM at a big tech company, where I managed large campaigns and led other PMs. Now, I’m looking to branch into different industries—especially fintech—which is why I’m excited about this role at your agency.”
2. “How did you find this role?”
If they ask this, they’re either genuinely curious (to improve their recruiting process) or want to understand why you applied. If you found the job in a unique way—like through a personal connection—that’s especially useful for them to know.
How to answer:
Just say where you found it (job board, LinkedIn, a contact) and what made you apply.
Example answer:
“I heard about the opening from a friend of a friend, Peyton Thomas. Since I’ve been following your work for a while and love what you do, I thought it’d be a great fit for me.”
3. “What do you know about our company?”
They want to see if you’ve done your homework. Anyone can apply to a job that fits their skills—but the right candidate actually cares about the company and its mission.
How to answer:
Don’t just repeat their “About” page. Pick one or two things that stand out to you (mission, product, culture) and explain why they matter to you.
Example answer:
“I’ve been reading your advice articles for years, and I love your mission of helping people build careers they’re passionate about. After spending a decade in jobs I didn’t love before finding my niche in sales, I’d love to help others avoid that path and find fulfilling work sooner.”
4. “Why did you leave/are you leaving your last job?”
This isn’t about digging for dirt—it’s about understanding your work ethic and attitude. Even if you were let go, it’s nothing to be ashamed of. Handling it professionally can actually impress them.
How to answer:
If you were fired or laid off, keep it brief: “I was let go because of [reason],” then focus on what you learned. If you’re leaving by choice, avoid badmouthing your old job—just talk about what excites you in this new role.
Example answer:
“I’ve loved my time in project management, but I’m ready to apply my skills in the tech space—and this role feels like the perfect opportunity.”
5. “Describe what you do in your current role”
Like “Tell me about yourself,” this helps them understand your skills. If you can’t explain your daily impact, why should they hire you?
How to answer:
Don’t just list tasks—highlight how your work helps the team or company. What skills have you built? How do you make things better?
Example answer:
“I analyze client data daily, which directly shapes how marketing and sales teams approach their work. I also collaborate with the product team to help them understand who they’re building for.”
6. “What are you looking for in your next job?”
This sets expectations—do your goals align with the role? If not, it’s better to know now.
How to answer:
Be honest (without badmouthing your current job). Example: “I’ve honed my data analysis skills and now want a role where I can use them more.”
Example answer:
“First, I want a role where I can keep using my data skills. Second, I’d love to present findings directly to clients. Beyond the job, I care about growth and purpose—which is why X Co’s mission excites me.”
7. “Why do you want this job?”
They want to see if you’ve researched them and actually care—not just need any job.
How to answer:
Pick something specific from their website or job description and tie it to your goals.
Example answer:
“After running in your Heart Run for years, I’ve been inspired by your team’s dedication. My 10 years in SaaS sales have prepared me for fundraising—and I’d love to use those skills to help your cause.”
8. “What are your salary requirements?”
They ask this early to avoid wasting time if your expectations don’t match their budget.
How to answer:
Research the market rate and give a range based on your experience. If it’s early, you can say: “I’m focused on finding the right fit and am open to negotiation.”
Example answer:
*“With my experience and Excel certifications (which you mentioned are valuable), I’m looking for 42K–42K–46K. But benefits like your on-site gym and commuter perks could make me flexible.”*
9. “How do you like to be managed?”
They want to ensure you’d work well with your potential boss.
How to answer:
Be honest. Share what’s worked in past roles—but keep it positive.
Example answer:
“I do best with clear goals and deadlines. Knowing how my work ties into the company’s success motivates me, so I thrive with managers who emphasize that connection.”
10. “Why should we hire you?”
This is your chance to stand out. What makes you uniquely great for this role?
Example answer:
“As an EA, I’ve handled schedules, travel, and even worked in Spanish—which would be a plus for your Barcelona trips.”
11. “Are you willing to relocate?”
They need to know if location is a dealbreaker.
How to answer:
If you can’t move yet, explain—but emphasize your interest.
Example answer:
“My kids are in school, so I’d need to work remotely until the year ends—but I’m very excited about this role.”
12. “When can you start?”
They might need someone ASAP or are just planning ahead.
How to answer:
If you’re free immediately, say so. Otherwise: “I can start X weeks after an offer” or “after [date].”
Example answer:
“I’ll give my current job two weeks’ notice, so I can start after that.”
13. “Do you have any questions for me?”
This is your chance to interview them too. Ask thoughtful questions about the role, team, or culture.
