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Before you call
Get ready first. Have your resume in front of you. Write down the job ad title or reference, if there is one. Think about which days and times you can work. Keep a pen and paper close, so you can write down names and next steps. Find a quiet place with good phone signal. It is normal to feel nervous. Take a slow breath. A short, clear start is all you need. Simple, clear English is fine. Agencies talk to many people every day.
Hi, my name is Ana. I'm calling about a job I saw on your website.
I'm looking for temp or casual work, and I'd like to register with your agency.
Is this a good time to talk?
Saying what work you want
The recruiter will often ask what kind of work you are looking for. Give one or two clear answers. You can name a type of job, like warehouse, cleaning, hospitality or office work. Say if you want short jobs, long jobs, or both. If you are open to different kinds of work, say that too. This helps them match you to jobs. Keep your answers short and simple. Pause and let them ask more questions.
I'm interested in warehouse or factory work.
I'm happy to do short-term jobs to start with.
I'm open to different types of work, as long as I can learn on the job.
Talking about your experience and availability
Recruiters usually ask about your past work and when you can start. Talk about your experience, even if it was in another country. Say what you did and for how long, in simple words. Then talk about your availability. Be honest about the days, times and areas that work for you. If you have no car, you can say you use public transport. Clear answers help them call you back for the right jobs.
Back home, I worked in a hotel kitchen for a few years.
I'm available Monday to Friday, and some weekends.
I don't drive, so I'd prefer jobs near public transport.
Asking questions and checking you understand
You can ask questions too. It is normal to ask what the next steps are, or what documents they might want to see. If the recruiter speaks fast or uses a word you don't know, ask them to repeat it or say it in another way. Most people are happy to slow down. Repeating key details back is a good habit. It shows you are careful and helps you avoid mistakes.
Sorry, could you say that a bit more slowly, please?
What are the next steps after this call?
Just to check, you'll send me an email with the details?
Ending the call well
At the end, thank the person and check how they will contact you. Ask for their name if you didn't catch it. Confirm your phone number or email if needed. After the call, write down what you agreed, like a time for a meeting or a form to fill in. If you don't hear back for a while, it is often fine to follow up politely by phone or email. Keep a friendly, patient tone.
Thanks so much for your time today.
Sorry, could I get your name again, please?
Is it okay if I follow up next week?
Common questions
What if I don't understand the recruiter?
Ask them to repeat or speak more slowly. You can say, "Sorry, could you say that again?" You can also ask them to send the details by email. This is a normal request, and many people ask it.
Should I call or send my resume first?
It depends on the agency. Some prefer you to apply online first. Others are happy to chat by phone. If you are unsure, you can call and ask, "What's the best way to apply with you?"
What if they say there's no work right now?
This happens often and is not personal. Thank them and ask if you can stay in touch. You can say, "Could you keep my details on file?" Then follow up politely later.