How to Sound More Self-Respectful When Communicating with HRs

Communicating with HR professionals is a key part of any job search process. However, it’s important to maintain your self-respect throughout the interactions. This guide offers actionable steps to help you assert yourself and protect your professional boundaries.

1. Demand a Detailed Job Description First

Before you share your CV or resume, ask for a complete job description that includes key result areas (KRAs), the salary range, and working hours. This shows that you are serious about the role and sets clear expectations upfront. When you make this request, you demonstrate that you're not just looking for any job—you’re looking for the right one.

Example: If an HR contacts you without sharing a detailed job description, politely respond with, "I'd like to review the full job description, including the responsibilities, salary range, and working hours, before moving forward with my application."

2. Set Boundaries on Communication

Avoid taking calls from HR representatives outside of office hours. This establishes clear professional boundaries and sends the message that you respect your personal time. It also gives HR a glimpse of how you value work-life balance—an increasingly important factor in modern workplaces.

Why it matters: By setting this boundary early, you're likely to ensure that work-related matters remain within a reasonable timeframe if you're hired.

3. Keep Your CTC and ECTC Private

Do not reveal your current or expected CTC (Cost to Company) until you’ve been interviewed, assessed, and received an offer. Disclosing this information prematurely can weaken your position during salary negotiations.

Example: If HR asks for your salary expectations early in the process, respond with, "I'd prefer to discuss compensation after the interview and assessment stages."

4. Avoid Excessive Follow-Ups

Once you’ve submitted your CV or completed an interview, avoid the temptation to follow up too frequently. It is the HR team’s responsibility to get back to you if they’re interested. Excessive follow-up can make you seem overly eager, which might reduce your perceived value.

Why it matters: By waiting for HR to reach out, you position yourself as someone in demand rather than someone chasing after every opportunity.

Pro Tip: Learn how to interact with HRs from Indian parents or grandparents born before the 1960s. Treat HRs the same way they would treat the parents of their son’s or daughter’s marriage prospects. 😉

5. Manage Your Excitement

Even if you’re thrilled about a potential opportunity, avoid showing too much enthusiasm during your interactions. Being overly excited can undermine your negotiation power, making it appear as though you’ll accept any offer just to get the job.

Tip: Focus on staying composed and ask thoughtful questions about the company and role to show your interest without coming across as desperate.

6. Take Time to Consider the Offer

If you receive a job offer, don’t rush into accepting it. Take your time to thoroughly evaluate the offer, including the salary, benefits, work environment, and growth opportunities. This not only gives you space to make a clear decision but also conveys that you are in control of your career choices.

Example: When you receive the offer, reply with something like, "Thank you for the offer. I’d like to take a day or two to think it through and get back to you with my decision."

7. Salary Negotiation: It’s Up to You

Salary negotiation is your responsibility. Know your worth and be ready to negotiate confidently. Do your research on industry standards and don’t settle for less than what you deserve. Remember, the first offer is rarely the final offer.

Tip: Use data from salary comparison tools or websites like Glassdoor to back up your negotiation and approach the conversation from a place of knowledge.

8. Don't get frustrated with Rejections

Rejection doesn’t mean you’re unfit for the role. It’s often the result of factors beyond your control, such as the company having already filled the position or having shortlisted candidates before you applied. Remember, many qualified candidates face rejection simply because the timing wasn’t right. Don’t let it affect your confidence or self-worth.

Tip: Understand that rejections are part of the journey. Instead of dwelling on them, focus on your strengths and keep applying to opportunities that align with your skills and aspirations.

9. Always Emphasize Email Communications Over Phone 

Whenever possible, prioritize email communication over phone calls. Emails give you the advantage of taking your time to think through your responses, ensuring that you convey your thoughts clearly and professionally. Unlike phone conversations, where you might feel pressured to respond quickly or might struggle to adjust your tone, emails allow you to craft a well-considered reply. Additionally, you have the opportunity to review and edit your message before sending, reducing the chance of miscommunication or saying something you might later regret.

Tip: If HR reaches out via phone, politely request to continue the conversation over email by saying, "Could we continue this discussion over email? I’d like to have everything documented for better clarity." This approach demonstrates your professionalism and attention to detail.

Conclusion 

By following these steps, you’ll not only maintain your self-respect but also project a sense of professionalism that HRs will recognize. In the end, assertiveness leads to better opportunities and a career path that aligns with your values and expectations. Always remember: you bring value to the table, and how you communicate with HR should reflect that.