Professional in Human Resources (PHR) Practice Exam

What is the purpose of a prescreening interview?

1. To finalize job offers for selected candidates

2. To conduct in-depth assessments of behavioral competencies

3. To reduce the number of candidates for face-to-face interviews

4. To collect feedback from previous employers

The correct answer is: To reduce the number of candidates for face-to-face interviews

The purpose of a prescreening interview primarily centers on efficiently narrowing down the pool of candidates before moving to more intensive, in-person interviews. This initial screening often involves phone interviews or brief conversations that assess basic qualifications, availability, and interest in the position. By doing so, employers can identify candidates who meet the minimum job requirements and determine which individuals should advance to the next stage of the hiring process. This approach helps streamline the selection process, making it more manageable and focused, as it eliminates candidates who may not fit the role or the organization's needs right off the bat. A well-conducted prescreening interview can save valuable time and resources for both the employer and the prospective employees, facilitating a more efficient overall hiring process.