What To Say To Your Tech Recruiter

By now, most people are aware of recruitment agencies and the role recruiters play in the job search. But what do you actually do when you get on the phone with one? This post will walk you through what to expect with a tech recruiter and how to help them help you, based on our insights as a top recruitment firm in the technology space.

What is a Recruiter?

Recruiters are specialists whose job is to connect companies with the right talent. They work on behalf of clients who are hiring for specific roles, source suitable candidates, and guide those candidates through the application process. Throughout, they offer their expertise and knowledge of the industry they’re working in. For this blog, we’ll focus on recruiters in the tech market. 

Recruiters use platforms like LinkedIn and job boards, as well as their own networks, to find professionals with the right skills and experience. If you match what they’re looking for, they’ll likely get in touch and be keen to have a phone conversation with you.

Introductions

There’s no single way to connect with a recruiter. You might apply to one of their job adverts, contact them directly if their details are publicly available, or they might approach you. Keeping your LinkedIn profile up to date with relevant skills and keywords makes it easier for recruiters to find you.

Recruiters (especially those in high-volume markets like tech) receive thousands of applications daily. Naturally, they can’t speak to everyone, so they have to be selective. If a recruiter reaches out for a conversation, it means they already think you could be a good match for one of their roles. You've passed the very first screen - well done!

Whether you initiate contact or they do, be open, honest, and polite. Recruiters will usually ask for an up-to-date CV (and a portfolio, if relevant) if they didn't already receive one as part of an application. If they have a job description from the client, they might share it with you. However, sometimes they’re sourcing candidates for roles that aren’t formally on the market yet. In these cases, you’ll learn more as the process unfolds.

If the recruiter still believes you’re a potential match, they’ll usually ask to arrange a call. In some cases, a recruiter might give you a call after viewing your application with the hopes of catching you at a good time - if this doesn't work for you, it's much better to ask to rearrange for a suitable time than try to rush through the call when you're busy!

The Phone Call

While the call isn’t an interview, it’s still important to put your best foot forward. This is your first chance to demonstrate professionalism and organisation, after all. If the call was scheduled, have it in your calendar so you don't forget, and be ready a few minutes early so it doesn't catch you off guard. Move somewhere quiet with good connectivity. Importantly, calm any nerves - most recruiters will take a friendly, conversational approach and are just trying to get to know you, so try to match their energy and let your personality come through. 

First impressions matter, and recruiters will be assessing cultural fit as well as judging your CV!

Questions

A recruiter will ask questions to understand your circumstances better. Strong answers help them match you to the right opportunities.

Here are some examples of what you might be asked, followed by our best tips on how to respond:

1. "Tell me about yourself/your background."

This is your pitch. What you don’t want to do is go into exhaustive detail about every job you’ve had. Instead, offer a clear, concise summary of your experience, skills, and current role. Be clear about which programming languages, tools, and technologies you're most proficient in. Mentioning a couple of interests outside work can help show drive, especially if they’re linked to tech.

2. "Talk to me more about..."

You should expect to be asked about anything included in your CV. Be prepared to discuss specific roles, projects, or gaps in your employment. Your recruiter needs to be able to present you confidently to their client, so it’s in your best interest to clear up any potential concerns in advance.

3. "Why are you looking?/What are you looking for?"

Be honest about why you’re considering a move and what you want from your next role. Think about:

• Progression or growth opportunities
• Better compensation or benefits
• Improved work-life balance
• A chance to work with new technologies
• A stronger culture or values fit

4. "What are your salary expectations?"

Recruiters ask this to avoid wasting your time on roles that don’t align financially. You’re not obligated to disclose your current salary, but we would definitely encourage you to be clear on your expectations going forward, especially your minimum.

Try to do some research to understand what’s typical in your market. If you’re unsure, ask your recruiter! They will know what’s realistic.

5. "When would you be available to start?"

Not all processes look the same. Some clients are hiring urgently, while others are more flexible, even willing to wait several months for the right candidate. Be upfront about your notice period, gardening leave, or any other obligations that may delay your start.

6. "Do you have other processes ongoing?"

It’s helpful for recruiters to know what stage you're at in other applications because it allows them to manage timelines and client expectations more effectively. It also shows that you're an active candidate in demand. 

7. "Are there any other factors that might affect your application?"

You don’t have to share anything you’re uncomfortable with, but being transparent helps the recruiter support you better and try to work around or accommodate your circumstances. Common disclosures our consultants hear include:

• Upcoming holidays or commitments
• Health conditions or disabilities requiring adjustments
• Big life changes (e.g. moving house, family circumstances)

This is by no means a comprehensive list, so if you're asked something we haven't mentioned here, don't panic! It's important to remember that the purpose of the call is not to test you, but for the recruiter to have the full picture of your situation so they can best represent you to clients looking to hire, so don't be afraid to give as much context as possible to your answers. 

Asking Questions

On the call, your recruiter will give more details about the role and the client. You will be given the opportunity to ask questions, which is a great way to ease any doubts or uncertainties you might have about the role.

These are some good general ones to start with:

• What is the team or management structure like?
• What are the goals of the role?
• How is success measured?

Beyond these, we recommend thinking more deeply about the specifics of the role and the company and asking questions based on what you've just heard on the call, as it demonstrates your proactiveness. Plus, the more insight you have, the easier it will be to decide whether the opportunity is really right for you.

Next Steps

After the call, the recruiter will decide whether to submit your profile to the client based on your conversation and CV. They will need your written permission to do this!

If your profile is sent and the client is keen, the recruiter will be back in touch to arrange the next stage, which may be an interview, technical test, or similar. Throughout the process, they’ll stay in contact. Make the most of this! Building a relationship with your recruiter can open future doors even if this particular role doesn’t end up working out, since you will stay top of mind for them.

Conclusion

Every interaction with a recruiter is a chance to move your career forward, so if you've got the attention of one who works the tech market, it's definitely a connection worth maintaining even if they haven't got your dream role on their desk right now. When it comes to navigating a phone call with a recruiter, as long as you know your CV well, understand your goals, and communicate clearly, you’ll do just fine. Remember: the recruiter is on your side. Work with them, not against them!