So you’ve gotten the attention of a recruiter and it’s time for a quick phone interview. Congrats! But how should you prepare? Should you go into it with the same mindset you would for an interview with a hiring manager at the company? In a few ways, yes; but you must realize it’s not the same.
Here is an idea of what a recruiter is looking for:
That you meet the job description
It’s not the recruiter’s job to see if you will be able to handle the finer details of the job. That type of questioning comes from the hiring manager. The recruiter wants to ensure you meet the job’s basic requirements. That being said, prior to the interview, you should review the job description closely. Take away the key requirements from the description and indicate during the interview how you believe your strengths align with these requirements.
You’re passionate
More often than not, a recruiter will be interviewing other candidates with similar skill sets to yours for a position. So how can you stand out? You can make yourself look unique in this situation by showing a noticeable passion and excitement for the role. Do this by showing excitement for a particular aspect of the job, or how you’d be elated to represent company XYZ. Showing that you have excitement along with the right skills will go a long way in the initial interview with a recruiter.
You’d Be a Good Fit within the Company’s Culture
If you are excited and passionate about a position, it’s probably because you think you are going to fit the company’s culture. The good news is the recruiter will be looking for this during the interview. There are obvious questions like “Does he/she have the right skills” and does “he/she have the right experience?”, but the next thing they will be looking for is if you are a strong cultural fit. “Will he/she fit in with the company and its employees?” To separate yourself from other candidates, you must demonstrate you’re a good fit.
Understand that the recruiter has already chosen to interview you because, on paper, you are a great match for the job. During this initial interview, they want to see the other intangibles that make the perfect fit for the position and the company as a whole.
Some Questions You Should Be Prepared to Answer
1. Do you want a job change or a career change?
In other words, have you mapped out your career? If you haven’t, what can you do to strategize? Some people need the stability of permanent employment, while others crave more seasonal and contractual roles.
2. What is your timeframe?
Are you interviewing now? When is your last day at your current job? Are you going on vacation soon? Are you available next week?
Recruiters are ready to hit the ground running, so if you aren’t available right away, let the recruiter know so they don’t push you toward a role you aren’t ready for.
5. How much money do you want/need?
Don’t be shy and don’t compromise. Again, recruiters need to know what your true needs and wants are, so they can place you in the right role.
6. Are you willing to travel?
We all have preferences when it comes to our jobs. Some love traveling, while others won’t go within a 20-mile radius of an airport.
7. Will you relocate?
Often, if you are an executive earning 6 figures and above, it can open more doors if you are willing to relocate. If you are not, or cannot relocate, that’s ok. Be honest and the recruiter will work hard to help you identify options locally for you.
We know how stressful the job search can be, but preparing for these questions can help make the process easier when you get that sudden call.