Phone Screen or Full Interview? How to Prepare for Either on Short Notice

Jan 14

3 min read

I’ve been interviewing at small tech startups and noticed that there’s a broad range of what will be covered in an initial interview. Some have felt like traditional phone screens, while others were in-depth interviews that caught me off guard.

Maybe you’ve been in the same position—preparing for a quick introductory call only to realize you were expected to answer technical or behavioral questions on the spot. Conversely, you might have over-prepared for a formal interview and then spent the call answering basic screening questions. Neither situation is ideal.

Why not just ask what you’ll discuss?

You might think the simplest solution is to ask the interviewer what the focus of the interview will be. While this is a great strategy, I’ve still found that interviews don’t always stick to the script. Conversations can evolve in unexpected directions, and if you’re not prepared, it can derail your momentum.

That’s why I started preparing for both types of initial interviews—phone screens and hiring manager interviews—ahead of time. It’s made a big difference in how I approach and navigate these conversations, no matter what direction they take.

Three Tips for Navigating Initial Interviews

Here are three strategies to help you judge the type of interview you’re having, prepare for it, and succeed:

1. Research the Role and Interviewer

What to Do: Before the interview, research the person you’ll be speaking with. If it’s a recruiter or talent acquisition specialist, the conversation will likely focus on your resume, qualifications, and basic job requirements. If it’s a hiring manager, be prepared for more in-depth questions about your experience, problem-solving skills, or specific technical abilities.
When to Use This Tip: As soon as you receive the invitation to interview and have the interviewer’s name.
Why It Works: Understanding who you’re speaking with allows you to anticipate what to expect during the interview. Recruiters often serve as gatekeepers, while hiring managers are evaluating your fit for the team and role.

2. Prepare for Both Phone Screens and Interviews

What to Do: For a phone screen, focus on clearly communicating your work history, key accomplishments, and enthusiasm for the role. Be prepared to: (1) share why you are interested in the role, (2) explain why you are a good fit/qualified, and (3) discuss your research about the company. While these questions may not be asked directly, they often form the foundation of phone screen discussions. For a hiring manager interview, prepare examples of your work that align with the job description, and be ready to discuss specific challenges you’ve faced and how you’ve overcome them.
When to Use This Tip: During your interview prep time, ideally 1-2 days before the call.
Why It Works: By preparing for both scenarios, you’ll avoid being caught off guard. If the conversation shifts from surface-level questions to a deeper dive into your skills, you’ll already have examples and talking points ready.

3. Adapt and Ask Questions

What to Do: Start by listening carefully to the tone and type of questions you’re being asked. If the interviewer begins diving into specifics about the role or team dynamics, it’s a sign you’re in more of an interview than a phone screen. Adapt your responses accordingly, and don’t hesitate to ask clarifying questions like, “Can you tell me more about what success looks like in this role?” or “How do you see this role evolving over the next 6-12 months?”
When to Use This Tip: During the interview itself.
Why It Works: By staying adaptable and engaging in a two-way conversation, you’ll demonstrate your ability to think on your feet and communicate effectively. Asking thoughtful questions also shows that you’re genuinely interested in the role and the company.

Navigating the uncertainty of initial interviews can be tricky, especially when the format varies so much. But with the right preparation and mindset, you can approach these conversations with confidence.

By researching your interviewer, preparing for multiple scenarios, and staying adaptable, you’ll be better equipped to handle whatever comes your way—and set yourself up for success in the next stage of the process.