Have you been calling prospects but seem unable to get past the voice mail or secretary to a decision maker?  It could be that the company is simply not interested or it could be that your tactics in negotiating the maze of gatekeepers are lacking. Below are a few tips recruiters can use to get past gatekeepers and get on with the task of selling their services to the decision makers:

1. Try calling before or after normal business hours.  Many decision makers arrive to work early and leave late; many of them even answer the phone during those times.  Calling before/after working hours could help you get to decision makers faster.
2. Send other types of communication before you make the cold-call.  If you send an email or letter before you give the prospect a call, you just bumped up call to a warm-call instead of a cold one.  When the gatekeeper asks who’s calling, tell them that you’re following up on a letter that you sent the decision maker.
3. When speaking with gatekeepers avoid going into your sales pitch, instead, simple tell them, “This is (your name), from (your company name) can you please tell (decision maker) that I’m on the line.”  There is nothing wrong with making this type of statement, just make sure that you are polite. 
4. When gatekeepers ask what the call is in reference to, remain confident and avoid a sales pitch.  Simple say, “I’m calling regarding (the decision maker’s name) recruiting needs. When are they available?”  This way you have answered the gatekeeper’s question but have also opened the door to getting more information about when it is a good time for you to contact the decision maker.