Phone interview is often a good way to screen the candidates during the first round of interviews. The purpose of this screen is to make sure the candidates indeed is who she/he is – communicates well and is not misrepresenting what has been submitted with resume. Often, phone interviews are conducted by the human resources personnel – your partner who’s helping you recruit for the open position you are trying to fill. Discuss with your HR partner the most important elements you want to screen against. It could be communication skills, or some other objectives.