Cold Call Script: Recruit Better With These 6 Free Scripts

A cold call script is all about making that first impression, introducing your agency, sharing what sets you apart, and opening the door to new opportunities. Even though these talents may not know your brand yet, a well-crafted cold call can spark genuine interest and start building meaningful professional relationships.

Unlike emails, online job boards, and LinkedIn applications, a cold call can’t be easily ignored or lost in a crowded inbox. It captures attention in real time, giving you the opportunity to engage directly, understand the prospect’s mindset, and communicate the value your agency brings from the very first conversation.

How to cold call clients in recruitment?

Before making the call, research the candidate’s background, skills, and experience so you can tailor the conversation to their strengths and career goals. Begin with a friendly introduction: who you are, what your company does, and why you think they might be a great fit. Focus on listening, asking thoughtful questions, and highlighting opportunities that align with their interests. The goal is to create a meaningful first impression and start building a relationship that could lead to a successful professional collaboration.

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What do you say during a cold call?

To ensure a smooth and effective interaction with potential candidates, it can be helpful to follow a structured cold call script. A well-prepared cold call script serves as a guide, helping you introduce yourself and your company clearly, ask the right questions, and convey key opportunities without missing important points. At the same time, it allows room for natural conversation, so the call feels personal and engaging rather than robotic or overly rehearsed.

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What is a cold call script?

A cold call script is a carefully crafted guide that helps recruiters initiate conversations with potential candidates smoothly and confidently. It provides a clear structure for introducing the company, its values, opportunities, and benefits, ensuring that important points are communicated effectively without any awkward pauses or interruptions. By following a cold call script, recruiters can engage candidates more naturally, ask relevant questions, and maintain a professional flow throughout the call. Additionally, it makes follow-ups more organised, helping recruiters track conversations and build meaningful connections that can lead to successful hiring outcomes.

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Cold Call Script: 6 Free, Ready-To-Use Samples

Script 1: Streamlined Cold Call Script for Confident Candidate Outreach

Hi [Candidate_name], this is [Your_name] from [Company_name].

I’m reaching out about an open [Job_title] role we have and wanted to see if you’d be open to a quick chat. Is now a good time?

[Pause]

Great! I’d love to hear a bit about your experience with [Job_title] and the kind of projects or roles you’ve worked on.

[Pause / Listen]

Thank you! Based on your background with [Mention employer/project/skillset], I think this role could be a strong fit for you. It involves [briefly mention key responsibilities], and there’s plenty of opportunity to grow in [Field_name].

Would you like me to share more details about this opportunity?

[Pause]

Perfect! If you’re interested, we can schedule a short interview with the hiring manager. Could you share your availability for the next few days?

[Pause]

Awesome! I’ll send you an email with all the details. Thanks so much for your time today, [Candidate_name], and I’ll keep you updated on the next steps. Have a great day!

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Script 2: Share Your Company’s Benefits with a Short Cold Call Script

Hi [Candidate_name], this is [Your_name] from [Company_name].

I’m reaching out about a [Job_title] opportunity we have and wanted to see if now is a good time for a quick chat.

[Pause]

I came across your profile on [Platform] and noticed your experience in [Field of expertise]. Many candidates in this field often face challenges with career growth; have you experienced that too?

[Pause / Listen]

If you’re open to new opportunities, [Company_name] is looking for a [Job_title]. This role involves [briefly mention key responsibilities] and comes with perks such as [mention perks/benefits].

Based on your background in [specific skills/experience], I think you’d be a great fit. Would you like me to share your details with the hiring manager?

[Pause]

Perfect! We can also schedule a follow-up call to go over more details. What time works best for you?

I’ll send you an email with all the information and keep you updated on the next steps. Thanks so much for your time, [Candidate_name]!

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Script 3: A Cold Call Script for Engaging Referred Candidates

Hi [Candidate_name], am I speaking with you?

[Pause]

You might not know me personally, but our mutual connection, [Connection_name], suggested I reach out regarding a job opportunity at [Company_name].

Do you have about five minutes to chat? If not, we can schedule a time that works better for you.

[Pause]

Great! [Company_name] is currently looking for a [Job_title]. They’re involved in some exciting projects, including [Mention key projects/details related to the role].

[Connection_name] mentioned that you have strong experience in [Mention skillset/expertise/field] from your time at [Company_name]. Is that correct?

[Pause]

That’s wonderful to hear! Could you give me a brief overview of the projects, responsibilities, and tasks you’ve handled in this area?

[Pause]

And what measurable results or achievements did you accomplish using these skills?

[Pause]

This position is with [Company_name] for [Time_duration], located in [Location]. Do you feel this role aligns with your career goals, and would you be comfortable pursuing it?

[Pause]

Perfect, [Candidate_name]. Before we set up a call with the hiring manager, could you share your expected compensation package for this role?

[Pause]

Thank you! And if my client decides to move forward with an interview, what would your availability look like?

[Pause]

Excellent! I’ll keep you updated on the next steps and any further communication.

Thank you so much for your time, [Candidate_name]. I look forward to speaking with you again, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions in the meantime.

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Script 4: Candidate Follow-Up Cold Call Script

Hi [Candidate_name], I hope this is a good time to talk about the [Job_title] role you applied for with [Company_name]. Are you available for a few minutes?

[Pause]

I’m [Your_name] from [Agency name/Company name]. As you know, [Company_name] is looking for a skilled [Job_title].

Could you start by telling me what motivated you to apply for this role?

[Pause / Listen]

That’s great to hear, [Candidate_name]! You mentioned that you’re interested in growing within [Industry/Field_name]. You’ll be happy to know that [Company_name] offers excellent opportunities in this area. In this role, you’d be responsible for [Mention key responsibilities], and the company also provides [Mention perks/benefits].

Does this sound like something that aligns with your career goals?

[Pause / Listen]

Perfect! I’d also like to understand your experience with [Mention skillset/expertise/field]. What kind of tasks or projects have you handled in your current role?

[Pause / Listen]

Additionally, could you share your expectations for this position? For example, your desired compensation range, or what other priorities would you like this role to fulfil?

[Pause / Listen]

Thank you for sharing that, [Candidate_name]. This helps me ensure I’m moving forward with the right candidate for my client.

Before we wrap up, is there any additional information you’d like me to share with the hiring manager that might not be on your resume?

[Pause / Listen]

Excellent! Thank you so much for your time today. I’ll coordinate with the hiring manager to schedule a follow-up call or meeting. What time works best for you?

[Pause]

Great! I’ll keep you updated via email on the next steps. Thanks again, [Candidate_name], and have a wonderful day!

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Script 5: Referral-Based Candidate Cold Call Script

Good morning/afternoon/evening! Am I speaking with [Candidate_name]?

[Pause]

This is [Your_name] from [Company/Agency Name]. We haven’t met, but your peer [Referrer_name] recommended I reach out regarding a role I’m hiring for.

Is now a good time to chat briefly?

[Pause]

[Company_name] is currently looking for talented candidates for a [Job_title] position, and based on [Referrer_name]’s recommendation, I thought it made sense to introduce you to this opportunity. I understand you’ve been working as a [Job_title] with [Company_name] for some time now. How has that experience been?

[Pause]

Great! I’d also like to know if there’s anything new you’d like to explore within your field. Considering your current responsibilities and achievements, where do you see yourself in the next few years?

[Pause]

That’s interesting, [Candidate_name]. How do you feel about working with [Mention skillset/expertise/field]? Do you have prior experience and measurable results in this area?

[Pause]

That’s excellent! My client is specifically looking for candidates with similar skills and accomplishments.

Let me quickly brief you about this role at [Company_name]. As a [Job_title], you’ll be responsible for [Mention company details and key responsibilities]. Does this sound like something that would interest you?

[Pause]

If my client moves forward with an interview, what would your availability look like?

Great! Before we wrap up, I’d like to share [Mention any other vital details]. Is there anything else you’d like to ask or share about this role?

[Pause]

Thank you for your time, [Candidate_name]. I’ll keep you updated as soon as I have any news. Have a great day!

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Script 6: Cold Call Script to Reach Passive Talents

Hi [Candidate_name], this is [Your_name].

I’m reaching out because I’m recruiting for a [Job_title] position with [Company_name]. Do you have a moment to chat?

[Pause]

I know this may be unexpected, but I wanted to see if you’re open to hearing about new opportunities. Are you currently considering a new role?

[Pause]

Great! Thank you for taking a few minutes. One of my clients is looking for a [Job_title], and based on your background, you seem like a strong fit. Specifically, [Company_name] is seeking someone with experience in [Skillset].

Could you give me a brief overview, about thirty seconds, of your background, industry experience, current company, and projects you’ve worked on?

[Pause]

And how has your experience with your current employer been?

[Pause]

That’s excellent, [Candidate_name]. I’d love to work with you to explore growth opportunities, and I’m confident [Company_name] has some exciting projects that align with your experience.

This role involves [Project/responsibilities] and requires expertise in [Skillset]. Based on your experience, I think you’d be a great fit for the team. Would you be comfortable with [starting period, location, working hours, etc.]?

[Pause]

Perfect. I’ll make sure to share this with my client. Could you also let me know your salary expectations for a role like this?

If you’d like, I can forward your resume and details to [Company_name] for an interview. How does that sound?

[Pause]

Great! Let me know your availability, and we can set up a call with the client. Does [Mention date/time] work for you?

[Pause]

Thanks again for your time today, [Candidate_name]. Do you have any questions for me?

[Pause]

Before we finish, if you know anyone in your network who might also be interested, please feel free to share their details with me at [Email details]. My client is looking to hire more than one candidate.

Thanks again, [Candidate_name], and have a wonderful day!

Make your cold calls easier and more effective with these ready-to-use scripts!

1. What is a cold call?

A cold call is a classic yet powerful way to connect with potential prospects who haven’t interacted with your company or agency before.

2. What is cold calling in recruitment?

Cold calling in recruitment essentially means reaching out to prospective candidates through a well-planned, strategic phone call. It goes beyond just introducing your company; it’s about creating a meaningful first impression that opens the door to long-term professional relationships.

3. What is the importance of cold calling?

A successful cold call helps recruiters understand the candidate’s goals, motivations, and career interests while positioning the agency as a trusted partner rather than just another employer.