We have all been in that situation where we are going on about our day and suddenly our phone rings and it’s a recruiter from the other end. Sometimes it is difficult to handle this situation. It might be your first interaction with the recruiter. It’s always best to make the best impression. There is a saying that goes “First impression is always the best impression”
Stay Calm and Collected:
We have spoken to hundreds of candidates for screening. We observed that, many a times the candidates would continue talking in a noisy background. This often causes both parties to struggle to hear each other clearly, leading to misunderstandings and missed information.
When you receive a technical screening call, it’s very important to stay calm and collected. If you are in a noisy environment, it is ok to ask the recruiter to hold on for a moment. Find a better place to talk.
Don’t hesitate to ask to reschedule:
Sometimes, the timing of the call might be genuinely inconvenient. If that’s the case, it’s totally fine to politely request to reschedule. You can say, “I appreciate the call, but I’m in the middle of something important right now. Could we reschedule for a time that works better?”. This shows that you value their time and want to be fully present for the conversation.
Listen and Respond carefully:
During the call, make sure to listen carefully to the interviewer’s questions. Take a moment to think before you answer, and respond with clarity. If you don’t know the answer to a question, don’t disconnect the call or block the number. Instead, say that you are not able to recall the answer at the moment but will review the topic again. This shows that you’re interested in improving your skills.
Handling Nervousness and Disinterest:
Many candidates disconnect the call when they become nervous or if they are not interested in the role. Instead of ignoring the call, inform the recruiter that you are no longer interested in that job role but are open to other opportunities. This shows that you value their efforts and time, and they might contact you again for a better opportunity in the future.
Expressing Interest and Engagement:
Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company by expressing your interest. You might say, “I’m excited to learn more about this opportunity”. This shows that you’re engaged and motivated. Ask a couple of questions about the role or the company. This demonstrates your interest and engagement. You can ask about the feedback for your answers and ask for suggestions for improvements.
Follow-Up with a Thank-You Email:
After the call, it’s a great idea to send a thank-you email. This follow-up shows your professionalism and reinforces your enthusiasm for the role.
Conclusion:
Handling a technical screening call doesn’t have to be stressful. By staying calm, prepared, and engaged, you can navigate this phase effectively, leaving a positive impression on recruiters. Remember, each interaction is an opportunity to showcase your skills and enthusiasm. Follow these tips to ensure you make the most of your next technical screening call.