How to screen candidates

Learn how to screen candidates, including how to conduct a phone screen, reference-checking tips, and tricks for sorting applications.

Featured guides

Don't be scared of the Four Day Work Week
What characteristics identify a job hopper?
Discover the key characteristics that identify a job hopper and learn how to assess their impact on your hiring decisions and team stability effectively.
What are the warning signs of a bad candidate?
Learn to spot the warning signs of a bad candidate early on. Protect your hiring process by recognising red flags that signal a poor fit for your team.
How should I evaluate overqualified candidates?
Discover how to evaluate overqualified candidates effectively and decide if their skills and experience are a valuable fit for your team and organisation.
Woman, smiling.
How do I put together a person specification?
Learn how to put together a clear person specification that helps recruiters identify the skills and qualities needed to find the perfect candidate efficiently.

All guides

Algorithmic Hiring: This Technology Could Make Or Break Your Recruitment
Explore what algorithmic hiring is, how it works, and how recruiters can use data-driven tools to streamline decision-making and improve hiring outcomes.
Is it always too risky to make an offer before checking references?
A reference check can be illuminating and extremely valuable in your interview process. Get started today by posting a job for free at Monster.
How to Find Good Hourly Employees
Attract qualified, skilled candidates with our recruiting strategies for hourly employees. Post your company's job openings and more at Monster.co.uk.
What are the warning signs of a bad candidate?
Learn to spot the warning signs of a bad candidate early on. Protect your hiring process by recognising red flags that signal a poor fit for your team.
How do I check a candidates references?
Discover effective methods to check candidates’ references with confidence. Ensure you hire the right talent by following our expert screening tips.
How can I analyse a candidate’s intangible skills?
Learn how to analyse a candidate’s intangible skills to identify qualities like adaptability, communication, and teamwork that drive long-term success.
How To Decide If Application Forms Or CVs Are Better
When advertising for a new job, you need to decide whether you want your applicants to apply using a CV or by answering an application form you have created. Each method has pros and cons, which must be considered before deciding which suits your recruitment campaign. 
How can I read between the lines of a CV?
Discover how to read between the lines of a CV to uncover hidden skills, potential red flags, and the true fit of candidates for your organisation.
How do I put together a person specification?
Learn how to put together a clear person specification that helps recruiters identify the skills and qualities needed to find the perfect candidate efficiently.
How should I evaluate overqualified candidates?
Discover how to evaluate overqualified candidates effectively and decide if their skills and experience are a valuable fit for your team and organisation.
How can I screen job applications effectively?
Learn how to screen job applications effectively to shortlist the best candidates, saving time and improving your chances of hiring top talent efficiently.
How To Make Sure Your Business Is Protected From Negligent Hiring
Discover how to avoid negligent hiring by implementing thorough background checks and screening processes to protect your organisation and hire responsibly.
How can I evaluate a candidate’s social skills?
Learn how to evaluate a candidate’s social skills effectively to ensure they fit your team culture and contribute positively to your workplace environment.
How do I determine the best candidate?
Learn how to determine the best candidate for the role with proven strategies that help recruiters assess skills, fit, and potential more effectively.
What are the most common lies told by job applicants?
Most candidates are truthful. However, with so much at stake, it pays for employers to take the time to check.
What characteristics identify a job hopper?
Discover the key characteristics that identify a job hopper and learn how to assess their impact on your hiring decisions and team stability effectively.