When you’re invited to a screening call, it’s easy to feel like you’re stepping into the unknown. But here’s the good news—by the time you reach this stage, the recruiter already wants you to succeed.
As someone who has been through countless hiring processes, let me share a little secret with you: the recruiter is cheering for you to land the job.
Why? Because they’ve likely already reviewed your qualifications and believe you meet some of the job’s key requirements. And, of course, if you do secure the role, there’s often a commission or successful placement fee waiting for them.
So, the screening call is really about one thing, confirming their initial impression and comparing you to other candidates with similar skills and experience.
The question now is, how do you make sure you stand out and prove you’re the perfect fit?
It’s all about being clear, showing genuine interest, and demonstrating that you’ve done your homework on the company.
Here are four simple yet powerful sentences that we have seen work time and time again in screening calls. They help you to come across as prepared, professional, and genuinely excited about the role.
Use these boost your chances of success at your next interview
- “I’ve been following [Company Name]’s work on [Specific Project/Initiative], and I’m really impressed by…”
This is your chance to show that you’ve done your research. Mentioning a specific project or initiative that the company is involved in demonstrates genuine interest. It shows that you’re not just here for any job—you’re invested in their work. Recruiters love candidates who have taken the time to understand the company’s mission and ongoing efforts.
2. “My experience in [Relevant Skill] helped me achieve [Quantifiable Result] at my previous role, and I believe it would translate well to the [Specific Responsibility] you mentioned.”
Here, you’re showing the recruiter how your past experience aligns with the job you’re applying for. By highlighting a skill that’s relevant to the role and backing it up with a quantifiable result, you’re proving that you not only have the ability but also a track record of success.
- “I’m particularly interested in [Aspect of the Role] because it aligns with my desire to [Career Goal].”
Cultural fit is a big factor in hiring decisions. By connecting the role to your career goals, you’re showing that you’re thinking about this job in the context of your long-term aspirations. It shows ambition and demonstrates that you’re not just focused on the present, but also on how you can grow within the company. Recruiters appreciate when candidates can articulate how their goals align with the organization’s direction.
4. “I’ve reviewed the job description and believe my qualifications in [Skills] make me a strong candidate. I’m eager to learn more about the challenges and opportunities of the position.”
This sentence showcases preparation and enthusiasm. By referencing the job description and your relevant skills, you’re confirming that you’ve done your homework. Showing eagerness to dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities highlights your readiness to contribute and positions you as someone who is genuinely excited to take on the role.
These sentences help you keep your responses concise, clear, and well-researched—everything a recruiter is looking for in a candidate.
So, next time you step into a screening call, use these techniques to show you’re the best fit for the role. With a little preparation and the right mindset, you can turn that initial conversation into the first step toward your next big career move.
