What Are Screening Questions?
Some job listings include screening questions that you'll need to answer before submitting your application. These questions help employers quickly identify candidates who meet their basic requirements.
Why Screening Questions Exist
- Save Time: Both you and employers save time by checking basic qualifications upfront.
- Fair Process: All candidates answer the same questions, creating a level playing field.
- Better Matches: Helps connect you with jobs where you're actually qualified.
- Instant Feedback: You'll know right away if you meet the basic requirements.
What to Expect
When you click "Apply" on a job with screening enabled:
- You'll see a brief questionnaire (usually 3-10 questions)
- Questions may be multiple choice, yes/no, or short answer
- You'll submit your answers and get immediate feedback
- If you pass, you can continue to the full application
Types of Questions
Employers typically ask about:
- Qualifications: "Do you have a degree in [field]?"
- Experience: "How many years of experience do you have?"
- Availability: "Can you start within 2 weeks?"
- Location: "Are you willing to work in [city]?"
- Skills: "Are you proficient in [software/tool]?"
Tips for Success
- Read carefully: Make sure you understand each question before answering.
- Be honest: Don't exaggerate – it will come out during interviews.
- Take your time: There's usually no time limit, so think before you answer.
- One chance: You typically can't retake screening for the same job, so answer thoughtfully.
If You Don't Pass
Don't be discouraged if you don't pass a screening. It simply means that particular job wasn't the right fit for your current qualifications. Use it as feedback to:
- Focus on jobs that better match your experience
- Identify skills you might want to develop
- Keep applying to other suitable positions
For Employers
If you're an employer looking to set up screening questions for your job postings, check our Smart Screening System guide for detailed instructions.