Screening interviews are designed to allow recruiters to gain basic information about your skills, knowledge, experience, and career goals as those variables relate to their job openings. The screening interview is also designed to let you learn more about the specific organization and its culture.
Many organizations begin the interview process by screening several candidates.
A screening interview may take place on a college or university campus, at a job fair, during a prearranged appointment in a public place, over the telephone, or at the recruiter's office. Typically, such interviews are 15 to 30 minutes in length. Although rare, some screening interviews involve more than one recruiter. While you should always research an organization prior to any interview, you can expect to acquire additional information about the organization during a screening interview. In essence, screening interviews allow employers to screen candidates and candidates to screen employers.