What to Say (and Not to Say) When a Sales Recruiter Calls
Do sales recruiters call you frequently? Here are some tips for What to Say (and Not to Say) When a Sales Recruiter Calls.
If you are a sales professional, you’ve probably had a sales recruiter call you from time to time to see if you are interested in making a career move. While many people are inclined to say they are not interested and hang up right away, there is a better approach, and one that can benefit you.
Rather than immediately dismissing a sales recruiter’s call, here is what you should say (and what you shouldn’t say) when they contact you:
- “Tell me about the opportunity”
When a sales recruiter calls, hear them out. You never know what they might have to offer – it could be a job you can’t refuse. At the very least, you learn about a new opportunity that you may or may not want to pursue.
Don’t say: “I’m not interested” – you might be!
- The truth
Be upfront and honest with the recruiter. Remember, their job is to not only help their client fill a position, but also to determine if you are a good fit for this position. If you stretch the truth, you are doing the recruiter and yourself a disservice.
Don’t: Exaggerate your career accomplishments.
- How Does the Process Work?
If you’ve never worked with a recruiter before, you may have some questions about how the recruiting process works before you decide to pursue an opportunity or establish a relationship with the recruiter. Use the call to get clarification about the recruiting firm, how things work, and expectations for all parties involved.
Don’t: Make assumptions.
- “I’m happy in my current job, but…”
Often times, recruiters will call you when you already have a job. Many identify candidates who could be a good fit and then inquire about their availability. Even if you are happy in your current job, don’t immediately shut down the recruiter. Ask them about why they contacted you and why they think you are a good fit for the position.
Don’t say: “Thanks but no thanks, I have a job.”
- Thank you
Being gracious is important. Even if the sales recruiter doesn’t have something that is of interest, thank them for contacting you. You never know when they may have a great opportunity, and if you establish a relationship with the recruiter, they will call you again.
SalesForce Search is a sales recruiting company which specializes in the recruitment and placement of sales professionals. We recruit sales people in every sector of the economy including, software, manufacturing, financial services and medical devices. Find the right sales person for your organization, start your search here.
Rhys Metler
Rhys is a tenacious, top performing Senior Sales Recruiter with 15+ years of focused experience in the Digital Media, Mobile, Software, Technology and B2B verticals. He has a successful track record of headhunting top performing sales candidates for some of the most exciting brands in North America. He is a Certified Recruitment Specialist (CRS) and has expert experience in prospecting new business, client retention/renewals and managing top performing sales and recruitment teams. Rhys enjoys spending quality time with his wife, son, and daughters, BBQing on a hot summer day and tropical vacations.
