To call or not to call: recruiters' approach to contacting before applying

You’ve probably seen it in Finnish job ads:
"For more information, contact Leo between 2–4 PM."

And you might be thinking:
“Wait… Am I supposed to call the recruiter? What should I even say?”

We recently had an honest Q&A session with Leo Heydon Lancelot Johansson-Stockford, an experienced recruiter in Finland. He shared the good, the bad, and the awkward truth about calling recruiters. Here's what we learned:

**1. Do I have to call the recruiter?**

No, not at all.

Leo said it loud and clear: “You will not get rejected just because you didn’t call.”
In fact, most people don’t call. And many who do… ask things that don’t help them apply better.

So don’t stress. Calling is optional — not a secret requirement.

2. But why is the recruiter’s number even there?

Usually, it’s there in case something is unclear in the job ad. Maybe you want to double-check if you're eligible, or clarify what a vague requirement actually means.

It doesn’t mean you must call — it means you’re allowed to if something is unclear.

3. Can calling help you get the interview?

Not directly — at least not for most roles.
Leo shared that he has never decided to invite someone to an interview just because of a call. A good application is still the main thing that gets you shortlisted.

However, calling can still matter — especially in sales or client-facing roles.
Why? Because how you communicate on the phone gives a glimpse into your interpersonal skills, confidence, and clarity — all crucial for sales positions. If you make a strong impression during the call, it might support your application, even if it doesn't replace it.

So:

For sales and customer roles → A well-handled call can show off your strengths
For other roles → Focus on writing a strong, tailored CV and cover letter first

What doesn’t help?

Asking for insider info just for the sake of it
Asking “who’s the hiring manager?” (recruiters often can’t tell you)
Calling with nothing to say — just to be remembered

If the recruiter says, “Sounds like a good fit — apply,” that’s already a win.

4. Should I apply first or call first?

That depends on why you’re calling.

Leo says:

“If you’re missing some key info that helps you tailor your application, call first. But if you just want to make contact, apply first and call after if needed.”

— Leo Heydon Lancelot Johansson-Stockford

In short: Don’t delay applying just to make a call. Your tailored application matters more than being early.

5. What should I ask when I call?

Only ask what’s not already in the job ad — and what helps you decide whether or how to apply.

Here are some good examples:

“Can you clarify what level of Finnish is needed?”
“What does ‘experience with stakeholders’ really mean in this context?”
“Can you share what tools or frameworks the team currently uses?”

Don’t ask things like:

“What does the company do?” (Google it!)
“How many people have applied?” (Not relevant.)

6. Does it help to reach out on LinkedIn instead?

Leo shared that sometimes recruiters get 30+ messages on LinkedIn within 3 days — and they don’t have time to answer everyone.

So if you choose LinkedIn, be brief and specific. And don’t be upset if they don’t reply right away — or at all.

Final thoughts from Leo:

“Calling only helps if you use the info to tailor your application. I don’t mind if you call — but don’t stress if you don’t. It’s the application that counts.”

So, should YOU call?

✅ Yes — if something is unclear or you're stuck
❌ No — if you're just trying to stand out without a purpose
💡 Tip — Apply early and tailored. That’s still your best move.