How to Ace Recruiter Screens

How are your interviews going out there in the tech streets?

I'm sure you're talking to lots of recruiters.

If you keep getting rejected after talking to recruiters, don’t get discouraged – it happens to all of us in the job hunt.

The key to improving your chances of moving to the next interview step is to focus on what you can control, which is your interview performance.

Today's edition is all about interview tips to help you improve your conversations with recruiters.

As you likely know, the conversation with a recruiter is a screening interview.

That means they are looking to see if you meet the basic qualifications for the role and company.

Recruiters are can determine if you move further in the interview process, typically without input from others on their team.

They have decision-making power and it's in their interest to advocate for you if you are a strong candidate.

If the recruiter is really good, they will prep you for interviews and be very communicative throughout the hiring process.

So why are they not moving your forward? Let's dig in.

There are a few reasons you might be failing to pass the recruiter screen.

Check yourself on these things:

1. Vague answers

Are you being too abstract or ambiguous when answering questions? 

Here’s why telling specific, memorable stories is one of the most effective strategies to land you the gig. 

Remember, the key is not to ace every interview question. 

Instead, know your value and learn how to communicate it through specific stories and examples. 

2. Perception and rapport

Is your tone and energy giving an impression of aloofness, shyness, or arrogance? 

Check yourself, before you wreck yo'self.

We all get nervous sometimes, but be mindful of how you come across to others. Make sure you are energetic and positive.

Focus on boosting your self-confidence, because a positive internal narrative is key to your external success.

3. Motivation

Are you showing interest and motivation for this role/career/company?

Can you clearly articulate what excites you about this particular opportunity?

If not, do more research and get clear before you talk to the recruiter.

And don’t forget to communicate your excitement between interviews, by sending thank you emails.

This attention to detail is what separates the 1% of top candidates from other job seekers.

4. Communication skills

Do you know how to talk about yourself and your work experiences?

Have you polished up on your storytelling skills?

If not, master the STAR format to get an edge on other candidates.

Ask yourself if you are doing everything you can to get a little better with every interview you do.

Remember interviewing is a skill to hone over time.

Pay attention to your results, what's working and what needs improvement.

Small adjustments can lead to big results.

Keep going in this wild market, jobs in tech are still out there to be had!

P.S. ICYMI - I was featured in the New York Times and the Wall Street Journal.