Preselect an interview date and time protocol.

Preselect an interview date and time protocol.

I received an email from a recruiter asking me to interview with his company. He enclosed a link that would arrange the date and time.

The link confirmed my phone number so the interviewer has everything he need from me. That being said, what is the protocol? Should I send a short email stating that I'm looking forward to meeting or are they using this method to avoid emails until we speak? I appreciate your advice!

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6 Comments

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  1. Stephanie Mansueto, Corporate Recruiter & Job Hunting Coach

    I would message the recruiter and ask for details:

    1) Is this a screening with just him or will anyone else be a part of the interview?

    2) Will you have the chance to gain more information on the job responsibilities, pay range/budget, and the interview process?

    3) Ask for a detailed job description or link to where the job is posted on the company's website if publicly advertised.

    Also, when having a screening call with a recruiter and hiring manager, always ask "what responsibilities listed in the job posting are most important to the hiring team". This is a key way to find out how competitive you'll be for the position should you meet the preferred qualifications and it'll help you prepare for the next round of interviews should you be invited.

    Good luck!

  2. Anonymous

    This is such great advice! Asking for more details is key here so you can be prepared.

  3. Anonymous

    Thank you, Stephanie. Let me expand my post to reflect that I applied for the job through a portal. I know what the job entails but a recruiter reached out to arrange an interview and he provided a link. Should I send a personal email back besides clicking the date and time?

  4. Stephanie Mansueto, Corporate Recruiter & Job Hunting Coach

    Yes, I would. You can simply ask who will be participating in this interview. Some companies have you speak with a Recruiter first which is called a screening and some companies will have you move straight into a first round interview with a panel. You'll want this clarification so you know how to prepare.

  5. Anonymous

    Thank you, Stephanie. I appreciated your advice The interviewer explained the format, participants and overall steps in his email.

    Some recruiters have told me that they set this system to avoid emails from candidates during the screening process. It's in my nature to want to reach out and commence a relationship before the interview. I'll reach out tomorrow and appreciated your advice.

  6. Joan Williams, Senior Talent Acquisition Specialist

    Long time recruiter here - I would not reach out.

    I do not use them personally, as I do not like them but yes, most recruiters who use automated schedulers do it specifically to avoid back and forth emails with the candidate. You know what position you're interviewing for and you're scheduled. You're good to go.

    If you received a meeting invite, which I'm assuming you did, the meeting participants should be listed there.

    GOOD LUCK!

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