You’ve done the hard work. You’ve perfected your CV, written a killer cover letter, and sent off applications to your dream companies. You're scrolling through TikTok when your phone buzzes. It’s an unknown number. You ignore it. Or worse, you answer with a casual, "Who's this?"

Big mistake.

In a world of DMs, texts, and emails, we've forgotten the art of a phone call. But for recruiters and hiring managers, it's still a vital, and often the very first, point of personal contact. That initial phone screen can make or break your chances before you've even had a chance to talk about your skills.

I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some incredible, fast-paced brands like Gymshark, Nadine Merabi, and CurrentBody. These are dream employers for many, and the competition is fierce. What I've seen time and time again is that the candidates who succeed are the ones who are prepared at every single stage. Answering your phone professionally is stage one. Failing at this first, simple hurdle can, and will, take you out of the running for an opportunity that could change your life.

Why Your Phone Manner Matters More Than You Think

Imagine you're a recruiter. You have a stack of 100+ applications for one role. You need to create a shortlist, and quickly. You start making calls.

• Candidate A: Answers with a loud, "Alright?" You can hear music blasting in the background. They sound distracted and completely unprepared.
• Candidate B: Answers with a clear, "Hello, [Your Name] speaking." They sound alert, polite, and professional.
  

Who are you more likely to proceed with?

It’s a no-brainer. The first impression is everything. A professional greeting instantly tells the recruiter you are organised, serious about your job search, and respectful of their time. Answering like you’re talking to your best mate suggests the opposite. You might be the most qualified person for the job, but a sloppy phone call plants a seed of doubt about your professionalism and communication skills.

How to Answer the Phone Like Your Future Depends on It (Because It Might)

It’s simple to get this right. From the moment you start applying for jobs, treat every unknown number as a potential employer.

1. Find a Quiet Spot: If you can, step away from noise and distractions before you answer. If you're in a loud place and can't move, it's okay to say, "I'm so sorry, I'm not in the best place to talk right now. Would it be possible to call you back in 5 minutes?" This shows consideration.
2. Use a Professional Greeting: Ditch the "Yo," "What's up," or just a mumbled "Hello?" A simple, confident, "Hello, [Your Name] speaking," is perfect.
3. Speak Clearly and Smile: It sounds cheesy, but smiling when you talk actually changes your tone of voice, making you sound more friendly and approachable. Enunciate your words and speak at a moderate pace.
4. Be Prepared: Have a notepad and pen handy to take down names, numbers, and interview details. Keep your "elevator pitch" – a 30-second summary of who you are and what you're looking for – fresh in your mind.
5. Voicemail is Your Backup: If you miss the call, make sure your voicemail greeting is professional. "Hi, you've reached [Your Name]. I can't take your call right now, but please leave a message and I'll get back to you as soon as possible."

Getting a call from a company you admire is incredibly exciting. Don't let a moment of casualness ruin your chances. By being prepared and professional from the very first "hello," you're showing a potential employer that you're the polished, capable, and hire-worthy candidate they've been looking for.

About Emma Green



Emma Green is a seasoned Fractional People Director with over 20 years of recruitment experience working with leading global brands. Known for her expertise in talent acquisition, people development, and organizational strategy, Emma has helped businesses scale and thrive by building strong, high-performance teams. Passionate about leadership and the human side of business, she delivers tailored HR solutions that drive long-term success.

For more tips and advice on recruitment and people management, follow Emma on Instagram @askemmahr.