What do you do when a recruiter calls you? Do you feel nervous and rather suspicious? Are you in a hurry to hang up or are you excited about the opportunity that will be presented to you?

While some employees build a shell when a recruiter calls, others realize that by having this recruiter in their contact list, they leave certain doors open for the future.

Like most people you meet, each recruiter who contacts you is unique in their personality, professional practices and their own ethical standards. So, assuming you come across one of the "good guys" (and there are several!), What do you do?

1. Listen with curiosity

If a recruiter calls you when you are at work, be professional and courteous. If it's not a good time to chat, ask if you can call him back over your lunch hour, evening or morning before work.

When you chat, listen carefully to the recruiter's speech and take notes. If you want to know more, ask the right questions. The who, what, where, when, and why, for example: "What is the company?" The recruiter may not be able to disclose the name of the company they are recruiting for at the time, but you do not lose anything by asking. He will probably be able to give you more information about it such as the products and services offered, what type of industry, etc.

You can also ask why the position is open. Has anyone left their job? Is it a non-performing employee who must be replaced? Is it a brand new position that needs to be filled?

Ask what would be the possible start date; in other words, ask if the position should be filled very quickly or if the search will be made for days, weeks and, even, months. In short: Get a better idea of ​​the opportunity.

2. Be open minded

If you are happy with a job, you may think that this opportunity could take you away from your security and the happiness that comes from your immediate job.

On the other hand, it may be just what you need to break through professionally. You will not know if you do not take the "risk" and if you do not dig in order to go further.

However, if you are convinced that you do not want to personally fill the position, you may have a contact in your network that you can refer to the recruiter.

3. Interact clearly and politely

If a recruiter writes you an email to discuss a job opportunity, respond quickly enough, just to signify that you have received everything. You can answer later, with a restful head, having really analyzed the proposal.

Be sure to exchange these emails with your home address, not your work address, outside of business hours. Be respectful to your employer, but still take the time to respond over lunch, your break, etc.

Recruiters, in general, are people who value fast, professional communications.

Use business language, including a polite phrase. Think of the recruiter as your next boss; he is not your friend and this should be reflected in your discussions. Make sure your electronic signature is updated with your contact information, as well as your professional social media profiles.

In summary, if a recruiter calls you, take the time to listen, be open to discussion, and stay polite, professional, and courteous.

To view the original article by Jacqui Barrett-Poindexter, MRW, published by glassdoor click here.