5 Ways to Ace the Intro Call With a Recruiter
By Marta Gongos During the job search, one of the most spine-chilling tasks applicants go through is the introductory phone call with a recruiter.
More than half of hiring managers know within the first five minutes of an interview if a candidate is a good fit for the position. That’s why it’s important to put your best foot forward and make a strong first impression—but how do you do that?
We have some recommendations! Follow these five tips when preparing for an interview with a recruiter to put yourself on the fast track to getting hired.
Let’s get it into it!
1. Do Your Research
When preparing for an interview with a recruiter, dressing professionally and setting up your devices for a virtual call is just the beginning. You should also do some homework on the company and the job for which you’re applying.
We recommend:
- Visiting their website, social media pages, or blog
- Reading the job details carefully
- Identifying how your skills and experience match the job requirements
- Checking reviews from their past clients and employees
Not only will this help you get a sense of their mission, vision, values, and achievements, but it will also show the recruiter you’re genuinely interested in working for them.
On another note, researching your potential employer may also help you see if they’re a good fit for you. Remember that a “great fit” is a two-way street!
2. Pitch Yourself Beyond the Job Description
Whether you’re an industry veteran or a fresh graduate, your recruiter will likely ask you to tell them about yourself and why you’re interested in the role.
This is your chance to sell yourself! Prepare a concise and compelling pitch that summarizes your educational or professional background, skills, achievements, and goals. Focus on the aspects relevant to the position you’re interviewing for, and use specific examples.
3. Ask Questions & Discuss Salary Expectations
The introductory phone call isn’t meant to be a one-way interview. You should also ask the recruiter some questions to show you’re curious and enthusiastic, as well as to get a better understanding of the job, interview process, and company.
This is also an opportunity for you to ask them about their hiring process and even discuss salary expectations. While full-on salary negotiations should probably be saved for later, this is the time to get a ballpark estimate.
The key here is going beyond what’s posted online. You want to leave a lasting impression during an introductory phone call interview with a recruiter!
4. Be Professional and Personable
The introductory phone interview doesn’t only assess your qualifications. Good recruiters will also use this first interview to build rapport and gauge if you’re a fit for the company. Think of it as a blind date where you’re looking for a career instead of true love.
In this case, you want to come across as professional but also friendly and approachable. Be polite and respectful, but at the same time, don’t be afraid to show some enthusiasm, humour, or emotion (as long as it’s appropriate for the situation). Your goal is to show the recruiter that you’re not just right for the job, you’re also right for the team.
Job interviews don’t have to be stuffy and stale! Hiring managers often lean towards hiring job seekers that they like, so make yourself professionally likable.
5. Follow Up With the Hiring Manager
When preparing for an interview with a recruiter, you may think your work ends after that introductory phone call—think again!
After this first interview, don’t forget to send a thank-you email to the recruiter in which you express your appreciation for their time, reiterate your interest in the role, and highlight one or two key points from your conversation.
Keep it brief and send it within 24 hours of the call. This will help you stand out from other applicants and keep you on top of their minds!
Nail That Introductory Phone Call With Ad Culture
We highly recommend following these five tips if you want to come across as an amazing job candidate in your first interview with a recruiter. Or, better yet, connect with the pros at Ad Culture to set yourself up for surefire success!
Our job is connecting great companies with top-notch talent (like you). We can help you navigate multiple stages of the recruitment process, including the preparatory work by helping review your resume, to ensure you’re set up for success in your new role.
Contact our team today to get started!
