← Remote Work Glossary

Screening Call

A short first interview, usually with a recruiter, to confirm basic fit before deeper interviews.

A screening call is the opening conversation in most hiring processes — typically 20 to 30 minutes with a recruiter covering your background, salary expectations, availability and location. It filters candidates before managers invest time.

Treat it seriously: be ready to summarise your experience crisply, state your timezone and salary range, and ask about the role and process. Clearing it well sets the tone for every stage after.