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Before You Call
Get ready first. Sit somewhere quiet. Have a pen and paper close. Keep your resume in front of you, even if you have not sent it yet. Write down the kinds of jobs you want and the days and hours you can work. Think about how you will travel to work. It also helps to write a short sentence about yourself. Then you will not need to think of it on the spot. If you feel nervous, practice your first sentence out loud a few times.
Hi, my name is Ana. I'm calling about job opportunities.
I'm looking for warehouse or factory work.
I'm available Monday to Friday, during the day.
Starting the Call
Someone at the front desk often answers first. Say your name and why you are calling. They may pass you to a recruiter, or they may ask you to register online first. That is normal. If they talk too fast, it is okay to ask them to slow down. Most recruiters are used to this. Try to sound friendly and calm. A short, clear start is better than a long story.
I'd like to speak with a recruiter, please.
Sorry, could you speak a little more slowly?
Do I need to sign up online first?
Talking About Your Experience
The recruiter will probably ask about your past work. They may ask what jobs you did, for how long, and what skills you have. You can talk about work from your home country too. That experience counts. Give simple examples. For instance, say what you did each day. If you have special skills, like driving a forklift or speaking other languages, mention them. Answer honestly. If you don't understand a question, ask them to say it again.
In my home country, I worked as a cook for five years.
I'm good with my hands and I learn quickly.
Could you repeat the question, please?
Asking Your Own Questions
A phone call goes both ways. You can ask questions too. You may want to know what kinds of jobs they usually have, where the jobs are, or what the next step is. Some agencies ask you to come to the office for a meeting. Others do everything by phone or online. Write down the answers. Asking clear questions shows you are interested and organized.
What kinds of jobs do you usually have?
What happens next?
Do I need to come to your office?
Ending the Call and Following Up
Before you hang up, check the important details. Ask for the recruiter's name and the best way to contact them. Repeat any dates or times to be sure you understood. Thank them for their time. If you don't hear back after a few days, a short, polite follow-up call or email is common. Agencies are often busy, so it is fine to check in. Keep a list of the agencies you called and what they said.
Can I get your name and email, please?
Just to check, you said Tuesday at ten, right?
Thank you for your help. I look forward to hearing from you.
Common questions
What if I don't understand the recruiter?
That is okay. Ask them to repeat or speak more slowly. You can also say, "Could you say that another way?" Most recruiters are patient and talk to many people who are new to English.
Should I call or send an email first?
Both are common. Some people send their resume by email first, then call. Others call first and ask how to apply. If the agency's website says how they prefer to be contacted, follow that.
What should I do if they ask about documents or pay?
Listen carefully and write down what they say. If you are not sure about anything to do with papers, pay, or your rights, ask a trusted community organization or an official source for help.