There is one phone call in recruitment that never gets easier, even after 25 years.
It is not telling a candidate they messed up the interview.
It is not breaking the news to someone who clearly was not the right fit.
It is calling someone who did everything right, prepped for days, aced the interview stages, and got pipped at the final post by a hair.
"They loved you.
The team thought you were brilliant.
But they decided to offer the other person because of one specific project they delivered".
Hearing the silence on the other end of the line breaks my heart every single time.
You hear the exact moment the wind goes out of their sails.
They put their heart into the process.
They visualised the commute, the team, the new chapter.
And then you have to be the one to deliver the blow.
A lot of recruiters hide behind a template email when they have to deliver bad news.
I refuse to do that.
If someone gives up their time, their evenings, and their emotional energy to go through a rigorous process, they deserve a proper phone call, genuine feedback, and honest respect.
To anyone who has had that call recently:
Coming second in a process where two outstanding people were fighting for one seat does not mean you failed.
It means you were good enough to get the job, but there was only one desk.
Dust yourself off.
The right room is waiting for you.
Recruiters: pick up the phone.
Don't hide behind an email when it matters most.
25 Years in IT Recruitment | Targeted Talent Search for UK MSPs & IT Services Businesses
