How to Handle a Call from a Restaurant Recruiter

Are you a talented individual in the restaurant industry? If so, you may receive a call from a restaurant recruiter at some point. Don’t panic, this call could be a great opportunity for you to advance your career. Here are some tips to handle the call effectively

Always take the call

Refusing to take a recruiter’s call can harm your chances of future opportunities. Take for example: One manager declined to speak with a recruiter about a general manager position paying $60k base, which was $12k more than his current salary. However, when he was downsized less than a month later, his resume ended up at the same search firm. Failing to recognize the value of networking can hurt your career prospects.

Research about the recruiter

If you aren’t familiar with the recruiter or the firm, ask for credentials. Get a phone number so you can call back to confirm that the company — and recruiter — actually exist. This can assure you the call is not coming from someone within your company trying to find out if you’re looking at other job opportunities. Also, no one should ask you for money. If a recruiter ever asks you for payment, that’s when you hang up because that’s not recruiting. Never pay for a job.

Ask questions with discretion

During your first conversation, you may not be given the name of the hiring company, just a brief description of the opening and its requirements. The recruiter may then ask if you know anyone suitable for the job. Be equally discreet in return. If you’re interested, don’t fire off your resume. Instead, ask for more information so you can evaluate the opportunity. Your next conversation should probably occur outside your restaurant.

If you aren’t interested, say so, but offer the names of people who might be. You’ll be helping your contacts and the recruiter, which can put you on his or her short list to call next time. The restaurant manager who says “Would you like suggestions that might lead you to the appropriate people?”, will end up being a friend. Maybe three months down the road, they’ll have an assignment that’s appropriate for you.

Present yourself well and be positive

The fact that you’ve been called means you have the right background for an opening. Don’t assume you’re just chatting; the recruiter will be evaluating whether you have the communication skills and other “intangibles” needed for the job. If someone answers my questions with “yeps” and “nos“, I’ll probably keep looking for someone who answers in full sentences. A positive, can-do attitude is essential. If you can say, “We had some real financial problems and have been down in sales the past two years, but I’ve learned so much about how to manage during lean times”, I’m more likely to think well of you than if you run your employer down.

Set realistic expectations

When asked about your accomplishments or earnings, don’t embellish. Recruiters check references thoroughly and any lies will disqualify you. If you fudge on your resume, that will give you a black mark not only with the recruiter, but with all their client restaurant concepts as well. Being completely honest means the recruiter is more likely to find the right fit for you. Tell them what you’re looking for and what you want that you don‘t currently have in your current position. Be realistic and honest about what you’re earning and your abilities.

If you survive these tests, the recruiter will most likely reveal the employer’s identity to you. If you’re still interested and continue to impress the search executive, your name will be submitted to the company. If you’re suitable, the next call you receive will be to schedule an interview.

Receiving a call as a restaurant owner

As an owner, receiving a call from a restaurant recruiter can be an excellent opportunity to find talented individuals for your team. Here are some steps you can take to handle the call effectively:

Listen attentively

Listen to the recruiter carefully to understand the job position they are offering and the type of candidates they have in mind. Pay attention to their tone of voice, mannerisms, and the information they provide.

Ask questions

Clarify any doubts or questions you may have about the job position, the recruiting process, and the candidates’ qualifications. Ask the recruiter about their experience and track record in placing candidates in your industry.

Assess your needs

Determine if the job position the recruiter is offering meets your needs and if the candidate’s qualifications are a good match for your team. Think about your business goals, company culture, and the skills you require to take your business to the next level.

Set expectations

Clearly communicate your expectations to the recruiter. Let them know the skills and experience you are looking for in a candidate, the compensation package you are willing to offer, and the timeline for hiring.

Follow up

After the call, follow up with the recruiter to schedule a meeting to discuss the details of the job position and the candidates’ qualifications in more detail.

Remember that a good recruiter should be able to provide you with qualified candidates who are a good match for your business. By asking the right questions and setting clear expectations, you can ensure a successful hiring process.

Seize the Opportunity while you can

You never know when a management recruiter might present a better opportunity. You’d be wise to learn what jobs are available. As a restaurant manager, you should already know the value of networking with other industry insiders. As most jobs a recruiter searches to fill aren’t advertised, working with a restaurant recruiter gives you an avenue of broader exposure to potentially better positions than you can get on your own. It could result in the discovery of a better opportunity for yourself.