Careers advice

Vital phone screening interview tips NZ

Pass your next phone interview with flying colours using these practical, expert tips.

Last updated: 29 May 2026

Employers use phone screen interviews to reduce the number of candidates they have to meet in person.

Nail the prep before the call

Listen to the employer carefully, and don't jump the gun on questions.

Quick phone screen cheat sheet
What to do	What to avoid
Do answer within two to three rings with a professional greeting.	Do answer within two to three rings with a professional greeting.	Don't take the call while driving, walking down a noisy street, or shopping.	Don't take the call while driving, walking down a noisy street, or shopping.
Do let the interviewer finish speaking before you respond.	Do let the interviewer finish speaking before you respond.	Don't cut them off or jump ahead before they finish their sentence.	Don't cut them off or jump ahead before they finish their sentence.
Do highlight your soft skills like reliability and teamwork.	Do highlight your soft skills like reliability and teamwork.	Don't speak poorly about your past bosses or previous colleagues.	Don't speak poorly about your past bosses or previous colleagues.

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