How to Get a Recruiter on the Phone (And Actually Call You Back!)
- ilenerein
- Mar 25
- 6 min read
We’ve all been there.
You send in job applications, craft the perfect email, and then... crickets.
The waiting game begins, and getting a recruiter to actually pick up the phone and talk to you can feel like chasing Bigfoot — technically possible, but mostly the stuff of myths.
It’s frustrating, especially after putting in all that effort to polish your resume, tailor your cover letter, and research the company.
But don’t lose hope just yet.
I want to share some proven strategies (and a few insider secrets) on how to finally catch a recruiter’s attention and make them call you back.
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Make Your Resume Irresistible (Seriously, Make It Shine!)
First impressions matter, and for recruiters, your resume not only shows your experience, but it is an example of the type of work that you would do for the company.
Did you know that recruiters spend an average of 6-7 seconds scanning a resume? (No pressure, right?!)
To stand out, tailor your resume to show off your relevant skills and accomplishments—ditch that vague “team player” nonsense and get specific. As an Executive Recruiter, I look at over 500+ resumes a day (I wear bifocal contacts). Use numbers and results. For example, say something like, “Improved sales by 35% in Q1,” instead of, “Responsible for boosting sales.” Numbers catch eyes faster than buzzwords!
Oh, and format it like your college essay professor was grading it. I know, they frustrated me too! Make your resume clean, concise, and typo-free. Recruiters have enough headaches and don’t need to squint at another Comic Sans masterpiece.
The Magic of LinkedIn (Because, Yes, They Are Looking)
Here’s a little insider scoop for you — 87% of recruiters regularly use LinkedIn to find candidates. If your LinkedIn looks like a ghost town, you’re doing yourself zero favors.
Spend time to develop your LinkedIn profile. Invest in a professional photo (no selfies, people!), an eye-catching headline, and a well-written “About” section that highlights what makes you awesome.
Add keywords from job descriptions relevant to your industry — this helps you pop up in recruiter searches. And don’t forget to create engagement — comments, posts, and networking go a long way toward making you visible. Nobody can call you if they don’t know you exist!
Follow Up, But Don’t Be a Stage-Five Clinger
Okay, so you’ve applied for the job, sent your resume, and connected on LinkedIn.
Now what?
Sit back and hope?
Nope!
Follow up with the recruiter with a short, polite email or LinkedIn message. Something like, “Hi [Recruiter’s Name], I recently applied for the [Job Title] role at [Company] and would love the opportunity to discuss how my experience aligns with your needs.” Short, sweet, and to the point.
But here’s the kicker—67% of recruiters say they appreciate a follow-up, but no one appreciates five follow-ups in two days. Stay friendly and professional, and give them a little room.
Network Like a Pro (No, It’s Not Just for Extroverts)
If you think “networking” means awkward small talk at stuffy events, think again. Networking is as simple as joining relevant groups, connecting with people in your industry, and even asking for recommendations.
Did you know that 70% of jobs aren’t posted online and are filled through networking?
Yup, the #1 way to get on a recruiter’s radar is through someone in your network. And, networking is more than attending a networking event at a hotel ballroom.
Networking is just 'meeting people'. And, you can do that ANYWHERE!
Go volunteer at an organization that inspires you. You never know who you will meet.
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Be Prepared to Bring the Energy When They Do Call
Alright, all your hard work has paid off, and the recruiter calls you. Now what? Don’t panic!
Come to the conversation with researched questions about the company, a clear idea of why you’re a fit for the role, and a positive attitude. Recruiters are not just evaluating your experience—they want to see your enthusiasm and how well you’ll vibe with the team.
And remember, we recruiters talk to dozens of candidates a day. Remember to thank them for their time and interest. A little gratitude will go a long way. And, even if you are not a good fit for the current position, they will remember you for future career opportunities.
Final Thoughts (And a Tiny Pep Talk)
I know that getting a recruiter to call you can feel like a monumental task, but with the right strategy, you’ll be easily chatting with them in no time.
And if that doesn’t work, maybe offer free coffee in your email subject line? (Kidding...sort of. You can send me a message with the gift card LOL!)
Hiring is all about human connection, so stay authentic, stay optimistic, and know your worth.
Now go out there and land that call—you’ve got this!
Remember...
If you're feeling overwhelmed or frustrated during your job search, just remember that it's a journey and not a race.
With these tips in mind, you'll be well on your way to landing that dream role and taking the next steps in your career. So go out there and make it happen!
Don't be afraid to invest in yourself.
Working with a professional Job Search Strategist may require an initial investment, but it can pay off significantly in the long run by helping you secure a job faster and potentially at a higher salary.
These professional Job Search Strategists bring valuable insights, tailored advice, and industry-specific knowledge that can give you a competitive edge in the job market.
Plus, think of it as an investment in your future career success. It enhances your immediate job prospects, long-term career trajectory, and professional growth.
Investing in professional guidance can open doors to opportunities you might not have discovered on your own. THE HIDDEN COSTS OF UNEMPLOYMENT: How Much Money Are You Really Losing?
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Grab time on my calendar to discuss your job search and how we can get you hired rapidly!
If you are still baffled by the job search process and are convinced that it is broken, or you are going on interviews and not getting offers, grab time on my calendar to learn more about the strategic roadmap for job seekers I have created that shares the inside secrets from the view of the Recruiter, so you do not have to waste time figuring out how to find a job or to waste time by making mistakes.
My job seeking clients are getting hired in 3-8 weeks in their dream jobs after searching on their own for 9-12 months! Check out the detailed statistics.
Grab time on my calendar to discuss your job search and how we can get you hired rapidly!
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🔴 Ilene Rein is an Executive Recruiter and Job Search Strategist. She teaches job seekers exactly how to market themselves with laser precision to employers using inside secrets from the view of the Recruiter exponentially increasing their chances of getting noticed and hired rapidly!
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If you are serious about your job search and want to learn how to land your dream job in record time, schedule a complimentary consultation to speak directly with Ilene:
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My clients are getting hired in 6X FASTER in their dream jobs after searching on their own!
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Job seekers who landed their dream jobs in record time:
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